Dalton F.

1. What got you interested in the Peace Corps?

I met a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) and recruiter, Teagen, who got me hooked on his story of serving as an Agriculture Volunteer in Nepal. I wanted to do the same, or something similar, one day. It was the opportunity to work in service to a community in need, to work internationally, and to challenge myself.

2. What projects are you working on?

Currently I am planning with my counterpart to (1) promote mangrove cultivation and protection by the lakeside communities in my area and (2) direct an Easter-break gardening and life skills camp with primary school students.

We’re already working on projects in financial literacy, to transform local cow’s milk into yogurt, and to transform banana plant stems/trunks into fiber. With another set of community members, I work on public health issues—girls’ empowerment, sexual health, and malaria.

3. What strategies have you used to integrate into your community?

Going out and being active and engaged. Among other things, people seeing me out and about and doing stuff with them helps me to become more a part of the community. It opens space for deeper connection.

4. What is a highlight of your time in service so far?

My parents visited me for 2 weeks and we spent about half of their time here in my community. People were so gracious and pleased that I brought them and that I introduced my folks to different friends and acquaintances here. A women’s group with whom I work greeted the three of us with song and dance: Mom almost cried; she was so surprised at their warmth toward total strangers.

5. What have you enjoyed most about the community where you are serving?

Seeing the growth of those with whom I work. It’s such a nice feeling, and it always catches me by surprise.

6. What are some of the most important things you’ve learned from your community?

To persevere. There are so many reasons to throw up your hands at the challenges faced by villagers in Benin. But people keep pushing forward and are very ready to seize an opportunity. Beninese people keep themselves open to change despite the many structural challenges in village life.

To give gifts when returning from travel. One friend framed it as giving thanks to God for returning home. I consider it giving thanks to the people who make home worth returning to.

7. How do you spend time when you are not working on a project?

I read, bike, or hang out with people, or I study languages (French or Saxwé).

8. What are you looking forward to in your remaining time as a Volunteer?

I am looking forward to the rest of my service. I’m keeping a positive mindset about it. I want to be mindful and oriented while staying open to unexpected changes.

9. Once you finish service, what will you do differently when you return to the U.S.?

I will reevaluate how much I want a high-powered, all-encompassing career and how much I want a career that allows me space beyond work—to be involved in the community and its growth/betterment, for my home garden, and for long bike rides.

Want to learn more about serving as a Volunteer in Benin? Connect with a recruiter today.