This week I found out that the NGO Development program in Morocco was canceled. The Peace Corps was understanding about this "upset" at holiday time and very responsive around finding another posting. After reading the information about Community Organization Development and details about Bulgaria, I said "Yes!" to this placement. Here's a little info - I will add more in the New Year.
COD Volunteers assist in strengthening the organizational capacity of partner organizations at the local level. These Volunteers work with local and regional governments, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), economic development organizations, museums, and schools. They may help their organizations develop skills in community needs assessment and response, project initiation and implementation, grant writing, business administration and management, fundraising, environmental education and protection, and information and communication technology (ICT). COD Volunteers help regional and local governments foster transparency and public involvement in municipal affairs, address minority and NGO-sector issues, and promote community partnerships. Volunteers also work with local communities to enhance public knowledge of the environment and related issues, and to strengthen the public role in local decision-making. Volunteers may help conduct environmental education courses and organize outdoor activities and field trips for students. Volunteers also help teach Junior Achievement, applied economics and business English courses, and organize business and community development training events.
Very diverse and a lot of multi-tasking - perfect!
I'm excited about the mountains, forests and water in and around Bulgaria. I'm looking forward to learning more about the country, culture and language and will share more along the way!
Fast Facts about Bulgaria
· Literacy rate 98.2%
· Average life expectancy 69 (m), 76 (f)
· Body language Bulgarians shake their heads for ‘yes’ and nod for ‘no’
· Highest point Mt Musala (2925m)
· Area 110,910 sq km
· Unemployment rate 9.6%
· Inflation 7.3%
· Population 7.33 million
· GDP per capita US$10,700
· Export Bulgaria produces 10% of the world’s rose oil
