Two weeks from today...

It's been a year in the making and it's hard to believe I leave so soon. I still have no doubts, nervousness, or fear about the trip, only feelings of excitement. The experience will be life-changing, and with a college degree serving as a conclusion to the previous chapter in my life, change is exactly what I am looking for. I was thrilled to finally receive my volunteer placement, now having a definitive answer to the common "so what exactly will you be doing" question. I will be spending four to five hours each morning working at TAFCON, a local organization with a mission to develop a community without poverty or HIV/AIDS. With only four official staff members employed at their offices in Moshi, one other CCS volunteer will also be working at this site with me. I am eager to participate in disease prevention outreach in both the urban and rural communities, and my past summer experience working with the public health department will serve as a great resource. Apart from the community efforts, the staff of TAFCON also hopes to increase their capacity through grants and fundraising. This component of the position is also appealing and will certainly provide the challenge I am looking for. Time will fly by the next 14 days, and I have a lot of packing to do. I hope to make one final pre-departure entry before I leave, and after that I will update my blog when internet access is available. Thank you to all who have supported me and continue to lend guidance and reassurance.