US Peace Corps volunteers begin two-year mission in Moldova
Twenty Peace Corps volunteers from the United States have taken the oath to serve Moldovan people. Starting today, they will begin their roles as English teachers, health educators, and consultants in community and organisational development in Moldova.
For the next two years, these volunteers will reside in local villages with host families.
Among those who have taken the oath is Ryan Bell. He lived with the Căpăţină family in Ruseştii Noi for 10 weeks. Today, the Căpăţină family was present to support him.
“We considered him our third son. He is kind, helpful when needed, and tolerant. After he left early this morning, my husband and I felt a void. It feels empty without Ryan; the atmosphere is not the same,” said Domnica Căpățină.
“We want to assist the people of Moldova. I appreciate your culture and the hills. I am very excited; it is a significant moment,” declared Ryan Bell, a Peace Corps volunteer.
The Darii family from the same locality also supported Stephen Svrotiak, whom they grew very fond of.
“We are very proud of Ştefan. He is very open and adapted quickly to our community. He plays musical instruments, and we included him in our band. He joined us at the village festival in the neighbouring village of Ulmu and wore the national costume for the first time,” mentioned Galina Darii.
“We worked together, and he kept asking if he could help with anything. He enjoyed sarmale, beans, and meat. What was the most delicious food? - I can’t choose. Everything was very tasty,” said Ion Darii.
During the 10 weeks, the volunteers also learned traditional Moldovan dance.
The 20 Peace Corps volunteers will work in various localities across Moldova.
“During their Peace Corps service, these volunteers will learn about Moldovan culture and share American culture with their students and communities,” said Sara Chesters, Country Director of the US Peace Corps Moldova.
“In addition to bringing a new perspective, they help us understand that the world is larger than Moldova and bring valuable experience. I am pleased that some volunteers will be going to schools, particularly in rural areas where we have a shortage of teachers,” declared Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labor.
The Peace Corps is a non-political government agency from the United States founded to support developing countries and promote global friendship and peace. In Moldova, the mission has been active for 30 years, and during this time, over 1,400 volunteers have succeeded in fostering better communication between Moldovan citizens and those from the United States.
Transation by Iurie Tataru
