"So what exactly will you be doing in Tanzania?"

The title of this post has perhaps been the question I've been asked most frequently in the last month (and probably a few months before that). Until very recently, I have not really been able to give a concrete answer. Well now I can answer in depth (though I'm sure in the coming week my knowledge of my work will be greatly improved).

I've been given a detailed list of 7 projects that I (along with the other two volunteers in Morogoro) could potentially be working on. Many of these are with a local partner organization: Faraja Trust Fund. Here are the projects I could be working on:

1. Computer, English, Business Communication Course: Since May of this year volunteers with YCI have offered courses for vulnerable youth to develop computer skills and basic English skills. There have been two cycles of the course so far, so my group will be providing three levels of instruction for a total of five classes a week.
2. Secondary School HIV/AIDS Club: Since May of this year YCI volunteers have provided support to an HIV/AIDS club at a local Secondary School. The plan during my trip is to extend this support to a second school. The idea is to help the clubs, but not so that they rely on our support.
3. Good Governance Education for Active Student Youth and Future Leaders: This has been going on since February. We will be working at one school, once a week to increase the knowledge of 25-30 participants in principles of good governance and opportunities for involvement in local government.
4. English Class for Street Side School: My role as a volunteer will be more of a support role with the teacher of the class. Given my background, this should be great experience for any future jobs.
5. HIV/AIDS Outreach: This particular project has a lot of different facets, including but not limited to School Presentations, Talent Shows and other Community Outreach Events. This seems like one of the bigger projects I will be working on since the goal is to reach 600 community members.
6. Social Support for Youth PLHIV (People Living with HIV?): This will involve working with people affected by HIV, including both teens (14-18) as well as younger children. One activity will be to have stigma-free play days with younger children.
7. Communication and Development Support for Faraja: This will basically involve helping with their website as well as data entry and other office duties.

So there you have it. The best answer I can give at this time. I believe that some of the YCI staff may be reading my blog so if I'm wrong on some points, maybe they can correct me. I'm not sure, but I think I will only be working on some of these. I guess time will tell. I will update my status and the status of my work as time goes on.

Look for a detailed trip itinerary from me as well as final thoughts before departure in the next couple of days.

T-minus 50 hours and 38 minutes until my plane takes off....