The U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Mr. Richard Mills, swore-in 39 new Peace Corps Volunteers. The swearing-in ceremony marked the start of the two-year service of the volunteers in Armenia. 39 Armenian communities welcome these volunteers on Friday, who will live with Armenian families, teach English in local schools and work with non-governmental organizations.
The volunteers arrived to Armenia 3 months ago and successfully completed an intensive 11-week training to learn the Armenian language and prepare them for their work in Armenia. During these 3 months the volunteers lived in 5 communities in Ararat marz.
“The first Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in Armenia in 1992. Over the past 26 years, more than 1100 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Armenia. For these volunteers, Armenia is synonymous with home, community, love, and support. Today, we will add to this number by swearing in 39 more volunteers. These dedicated men and women represent America’s commitment to promoting world peace and friendship. They will carry on the legacy of all those who have served before them and they will enhance the success of our program for all those who will come after them,” said Peace Corps Armenia Country Director Mr. Sonny Luu.
An audience of over 300 people attended the event including: Government of Armenia representatives, U.S. Embassy Mission Staff, current and former Peace Corps Volunteers, families who have hosted Peace Corps volunteers in their homes, and international and local program partners.
With the addition of this new group, there are approximately 110 Peace Corps Volunteers serving in rural villages and towns throughout all of the regions of Armenia.
