The Invitation to Serve as an Economic Development Volunteer in Uganda

It was so exciting to finally receive my official invitation packet. It came on March 21st, 2011 in a big white Tyvek envelope delivered by UPS...not the USPS, which I found ironic. Even the government doesn't trust the US Mail.

The Invitation Packet of Material

There are lots of instructions and steps to take - some within 7 days. I had to formally accept the invite. I had to complete several forms to get a New Peace Corps Passport. I had to complete several forms for Visas to enter Uganda as well as Kenya....still not sure why I need a Kenyan visa...there is no real back & forth communication. I had to tailor my resume to my new assignment in Uganda and complete several questions to submit as my Aspiration Statement. I also was directed to an online resource - the Uganda Welcome Book. This is 100 pages and gives a great overview of serving in the Peace Corps in Uganda.

I leave August 3rd, 2011 for 2 days of Staging & Orientation - either in Philadelphia or Washington DC. I then go to Uganda for 10 weeks of Pre-Service Training. During this time I will be assigned one of the 40+ native languages to learn and be oriented to the cultural norms of Ugandan society. I will also have intensive training on safety & security procedures. My assignment will formally begin October 15, 2011 and will end 2 years later on October 15, 2013.

Uganda Econ Development Assignment Booklet

I have worked my way through the first major tasks and now I am focused on the Folders on Finance, Insurance and Staging. I am also starting to get my packing list together. I can bring 2 suitcases weighing 80 pounds total and a carry-on.