Site Assignment Day

Friday was the long-awaited day for Tico 18. PCCR staff took us to a recreational facility for the day to relax after announcing our site assignments. After breakfast, we went to a room with a huge map of Costa Rica. Three PCTs volunteered to find out first, blindfolded. Think pin-the-tail-on-the donkey. Then, after brief descriptions of each site, we were called one by one to label our location on the map. From my interview, I was given little hints about where I would go but I really didn’t set myself up for any specific place. All I knew was that I wanted to work with youth and ecotourism. I had mentioned interest in immigration and indigenous issues but I didn't want to be too picky. I was sure that the staff would know best. So when I heard Luis mention the only indigenous site for the CED Program, I broke out a huge smile as he looked at me and said my name. I’ll be working in the “Dirty South” as some call it, a few hours from Panama and the Osa Peninsula. Next weekend, our counterparts will take us to our sites for the first time. From what I know, there are about 2500+ people in my community, who are mainly indigenous. It should take me four and a half hours to get to San Jose from my site. We were all given folders with detailed information about our communities and possible projects. Among the challenges I’m interested in addressing are problems with youth, improving business practices, English for tourism, and recollection of trash. Luckily, there are many organizations with which I can work, including a radio station and artisan groups. I’ll be living with a woman, her dog and cat, which is perfect. I’m so ready to go!