Dear All,
An unfortunate incident in Severin has caused me to evacuate from my site. Because of this, I will be returning home to the United States.
Like many other volunteers, I joined the Peace Corp because of a desire to serve. I wanted to share knowledge and experiences with people less fortunate than those in the United States. I originally postponed joining the Peace Corps in my 20’s due to a post-college career opportunity. Since then, one of my life goals was to serve in the Peace Corps.
After the unfortunate incident in Drobeta Turnu Severin (Severin), it has caused me to re-evaluate what is important to me and where I would be most useful. Because of this event, I am choosing to return to assist my parents and resume life in the US. I plan to continue my humanitarian efforts in Chicago.
My time in the Peace Corps has provided irreplaceable experiences.
- I worked with a small micro-lending business institution during my practicum to develop literature using English as a vehicle to attract investors.
- I visited many schools in Severin and assisted in a couple of English camps (in Hungarian towns) where I developed an appreciation for the differences in schools and kid-cultures between Romania and the United States.
- My Filipino ethnicity, Chicago accent and origin, along with a little video conferencing with a couple US schools helped me teach about diversity in the schools and surrounding villages.
- The Unemployment Agency (my primary organization) was able to utilize me as a representative and liaison to the Roma population.
- I have learned much about Romanian, Hungarian and Roma cultures.
I am leaving with a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Romanian people and the supportive Peace Corps staff and volunteers. My only regret is having to leave the work I started in Severin. My experiences have demonstrated the need for a continued Peace Corps presence in Romania.
Sincerely,
Steven Manio
