FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, January 5, 2011

New Group of Peace Corps Volunteers in Jordan Sworn In

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 5, 2011 Thirty nine Americans were sworn-in yesterday as Peace Corps volunteers in Jordan. The diverse group of men and women from age 21 to 72 represent 21 different states and will work for two years in a variety of projects throughout the Kingdom.

Since their Oct. 25, 2010, arrival in Jordan, the new Peace Corps volunteers have undergone intensive training for 11 weeks in Mafraq Governorate. They have undergone intense Arabic language training, Jordanian cultural training, and have adapted their technical experience to a Jordanian context. They have been hosted by Jordanian families in eight Mafraq villages.

The volunteers will work throughout the country in Ministry of Education schools, Ministry of Social Development special education centers, and the Higher Council for Youths boys and girls youth centers. A few of the volunteers will be posted at Jordanian universities, including the Jordan University for Science and Technology, Al al-Bayt University, and Mutah University.

Peace Corps/Jordan Country Director Alex Boston presided over the swearing-in ceremony in Mafraq governorate.

By working with Jordans children and youth in schools, youth development centers, and special education centers, Peace Corps volunteers and their Jordanian counterparts are investing in the future of Jordan and are strengthening the relationship between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the United States.

Over 460 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Jordan since the program was established in 1997. Volunteers in this Middle Eastern nation work in the areas of education, and youth and community development. Currently, 38 Volunteers are serving in Jordan. Volunteers are trained and work in classical Arabic.

About the Peace Corps: President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Peace Corps will commemorate 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world through 2011. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 77 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

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