Work Update

Hello all!

Recently, another volunteer (Mitch) and I held a training with Jeune Leaders from an organization in Atakpame that works with children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. In the past, PCVs have worked a lot with this organization, including setting up two different activities with the organization, "Big Brothers/Big Sisters" and "Club Espoir" (Club Hope) that take place, alternatively, each Saturday--the first, third, and fourth Saturday are Big Bros/Big Sis and the second Saturday is Club Espoir). Normally, a new topic (i.e., Self Confidence, Strategies of Good Communication, Family Planning, Transmission/Prevention of STIs/HIV/AIDS, Hygiene, etc...) is presented by PCVs at Club Espoir along with games/sports and an art session and the same topic is repeated for the next three Saturdays. In an attempt to make the project more sustainable, Mitch and I have trained three of the oldest kids at the organization to be "Jeunes Leaders" (Young Leaders) to the rest of the children. In other words, the Jeunes Leaders will now be leading the sessions, therefore relieving PCVs of that responsibility. Of course, PCVs still have the option of being involved, but the success of the volunteer does not hinge on our presence.

The training went well and our 3 current Jeunes Leaders are AMAZING!! I am really proud of them and the work that they are doing. Below is a photo of me leading a session on Femidoms (female condoms) during the Transmission/Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections.

I hope that everything is well on the home front. I miss you all!!

Take Care!

-k