The other day I held a healthy homes session with a new group of moms in Chavin. At the end of the session, one of the mothers approached me and told me she would like to help me by serving as a Quechua translator when I go out to the more isolated communities where the majority of people don’t speak Spanish. It was a pretty significant moment for me because it was the first time in my year and a half here that I encountered someone wanting to volunteer their time to help others in the community without being asked. I was also encouraged to think that perhaps my passion for health promotion had inspired something in her. As a Peace Corps volunteer, my ability to make things happen is largely dependent on collaboration with community members. More often than not, this experience is like pulling teeth. I think a lot of this is due to the fact that I’m working with people that already have full-time jobs and other responsibilities so it can be challenging for them to find the time. But also, I think the concept of volunteerism is something we take for granted in the US. Starting in our youth we’re given opportunities to volunteer in any number of settings, and giving back to the community is something we’re encouraged to do at all ages. That’s not the case here. I often have to take a few minutes to explain what a volunteer is and people find it hard to believe that I don’t get paid to do my job. So, when I call on people to volunteer their time in the name of health, I think they find it hard to see the value especially when there is no material incentive. That being said, I think you can understand why I left this meeting unable to stop smiling. I had perceived the spirit of volunteerism in someone else and it was refreshing. As my service approaches its final months, I find myself reflecting on the past 22 months and sometimes feeling pleased with what I’ve accomplished and others times a little bit less than impressed. Behavior change is hard and takes time. Even the structural improvements we’re making to improve health, like improved cookstoves, have a limited lifespan. I realized a while back that, more so than anything, I want people to remember me as someone who was dedicated and gave of her time without expecting anything in return. One of the best possible accomplishments I can imagine is inspiring a few people in Chavin to do the same.
 |
| Kindergarten parade in the community of Machac |
 |
| Handwashing demonstration with Sra. Libertad in the elementary school of Chavin |
 |
| View from cemetery in neighboring Huantar |
 |
| Hiking out to Chichucancha during the rainy (mud) season |
 |
| Family garden session with the mothers of Chichucancha |
 |
| On the beach in Huanchaco with a very special guest |
