THE PEACE CORPS WELCOMES YOU TO THE

Eastern Caribbean

A PEACE CORPS PUBLICATION FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS

September 2013
Eastern Caribbean Map
THE PEACE CORPS | THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN WELCOME BOOK

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A WELCOME LETTER

Dear Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean Invitee,

Congratulations on your invitation to the upcoming pre-service training in the Eastern Caribbean! We are

pleased you have been offered this invitation to join the Peace Corps and to serve on one of the four island

nations that makes up our program. Serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer can be one of the most challenging

and rewarding experiences of your life. We hope you have given serious thought to what your service will

mean to you and to the people of the Eastern Caribbean. If you come with an open mind, a warm heart,

patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor, you will be well on your way to adjusting to life and work in a

new culture. This welcome book will help you prepare for your journey and will hopefully answer many of the

questions you may have about Peace Corps life in the Eastern Caribbean.

I am sure you have been doing research on our post and have probably already communicated with current

Volunteers and returned Peace Corps Volunteers from the region. There have been a number of significant

changes to our pre-service training over the last year. You will arrive in St. Lucia and then spend six weeks in

an intensive training program focusing on primary literacy, youth development, cross-cultural training,

language training, health and wellness, and keeping yourself safe. It is during this period when we will assign

you to a site on one of our four islands where Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) serve. After the six weeks on St.

Lucia, you will then fly to your island of service for three more weeks of training. As a Peace Corps trainee,

you will spend the first six weeks living with a host family in the training community on St. Lucia, and then

you will be with another family in your assigned community on your island of service. You will engage in an

integrated, community-based, pre-service training program. You will attend group sessions with the other

trainees and will also participate in community-based learning activities. Upon successful completion of preservice training (PST), you will be sworn in as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

As a Volunteer, you will be exposed to many new experiences. During the training, staff members are there to

provide information and guidance to help you determine how you will respond to the various challenges of

Peace Corps service. We will do our best to prepare you to have a positive and fulfilling Peace Corps

experience. You can begin the process now by reviewing the recommended readings about life in the Eastern

Caribbean.

There are a few things to think about as you accept our invitation. You may have been surprised that there are

Peace Corps Volunteers in this part of the world. Many people associate the Eastern Caribbean with tourist

destinations and lavish surroundings. As a result, you may have special challenges as you discover life beyond

that stereotype. Because you are asked to adhere to a modest lifestyle, many of the opportunities that tourists

enjoy will not be available to you on a Volunteer’s living allowance. You will have to make adjustments in

your lifestyle to be accepted and effective in the Eastern Caribbean. You should not expect the people and

culture to adjust to you. We make site assignments by matching your skills and background with the general

needs of a particular organization and community, and not on the basis of personal preferences. It is not an

exact match of skills; we look for a general set of skills that will help you be successful at a site. You may find

that you will learn new skills that will help you to be effective.

During your two years of service you will have the opportunity to work with local leaders and organizations

and contribute to the achievement of their development goals. Staff and local community members across the

islands have been preparing for your arrival. We hope you are excited about this opportunity to be of service to

the warm and friendly people of the Eastern Caribbean while you enjoy the many splendors that these island

nations offer.

Staff and Volunteers are eagerly awaiting your arrival and look forward to accompanying you on this journey

of a lifetime. Welcome to the Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean! We’re happy to have you join us!

Elizabeth Neason

Eastern Caribbean Country Director
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CONTENTS

A WELCOME LETTER...........................................................................................................................1

CONTENTS..............................................................................................................................................2

CORE EXPECTATIONS FOR PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS..........................................................4

PEACE CORPS/EASTERN CARIBBEAN HISTORY AND PROGRAMS.........................................5

COUNTRY OVERVIEW: EASTERN CARIBBEAN AT A GLANCE .................................................6

History......................................................................................................................................... 6

Government................................................................................................................................. 6

Economy ..................................................................................................................................... 6

People and Culture...................................................................................................................... 7

Environment................................................................................................................................ 7

RESOURCES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ..................................................................................8

General Information About the Eastern Caribbean .................................................................... 8

Connect With Returned Volunteers and Other Invitees ............................................................. 8

Online Articles/Current News Sites About the Eastern Caribbean ............................................ 9

Recommended Books ................................................................................................................. 9

Books About the History of the Peace Corps ........................................................................... 10

LIVING CONDITIONS AND VOLUNTEER LIFESTYLE.................................................................11

COMMUNICATIONS ............................................................................................................. 11

Housing and Site Location........................................................................................................ 11

Living Allowance and Money Management............................................................................. 11

Food and Diet............................................................................................................................ 12

Transportation........................................................................................................................... 12

Geography and Climate ............................................................................................................ 12

Social Activities........................................................................................................................ 13

Professionalism, Dress, and Behavior ...................................................................................... 13

Personal Safety.......................................................................................................................... 13

Rewards and Frustrations.......................................................................................................... 14

PEACE CORPS TRAINING..................................................................................................................15

Pre-Service Training ................................................................................................................. 15

Technical Training.................................................................................................................... 16

Language Training.................................................................................................................... 17

Cross-Cultural Training ............................................................................................................ 17

Health Training ......................................................................................................................... 17

Safety Training.......................................................................................................................... 17

Additional Trainings During Volunteer Service....................................................................... 17

YOUR HEALTH CARE AND SAFETY IN THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN......................................19

Health Issues in the Eastern Caribbean..................................................................................... 19

Helping You Stay Healthy........................................................................................................ 19

Maintaining Your Health .......................................................................................................... 19

Women’s Health Information ................................................................................................... 20

Your Peace Corps Medical Kit ................................................................................................. 20

Before You Leave: A Medical Checklist.................................................................................. 21

Safety and Security in Depth .................................................................................................... 22

Staying Safe: Don’t Be a Target for Crime .............................................................................. 23

Support from Staff .................................................................................................................... 23
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Crime Data for the Eastern Caribbean ...................................................................................... 24

DIVERSITY AND CROSS-CULTURAL ISSUES ...............................................................................26

Overview of Diversity in The Eastern Caribbean..................................................................... 26

What Might a Volunteer Face? ................................................................................................. 26

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.................................................................................................32

WELCOME LETTERS FROM EASTERN CARIBBEAN VOLUNTEERS........................................35

PACKING LIST .....................................................................................................................................40

PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST .........................................................................................................43

CONTACTING PEACE CORPS HEADQUARTERS..........................................................................45
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CORE EXPECTATIONS FOR PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS

In working toward fulfilling the Peace Corps mission of promoting world peace and friendship, as a trainee

and Volunteer, you are expected to do the following:

1. Prepare your personal and professional life to make a commitment to serve abroad for a full term

of 27 months

2. Commit to improving the quality of life of the people with whom you live and work and, in doing

so, share your skills, adapt them, and learn new skills as needed

3. Serve where the Peace Corps asks you to go, under conditions of hardship if necessary, and with

the flexibility needed for effective service

4. Recognize that your successful and sustainable development work is based on the local trust and

confidence you build by living in, and respectfully integrating yourself into, your host community

and culture

5. Recognize that you are responsible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your personal conduct and

professional performance

6. Engage with host country partners in a spirit of cooperation, mutual learning, and respect

7. Work within the rules and regulations of the Peace Corps and the local and national laws of the

country where you serve

8. Exercise judgment and personal responsibility to protect your health, safety, and well-being and

that of others

9. Recognize that you will be perceived, in your host country and community, as a representative of

the people, cultures, values, and traditions of the United States of America

10. Represent responsively the people, cultures, values, and traditions of your host country and

community to people in the United States both during and following your service
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PEACE CORPS/EASTERN CARIBBEAN

HISTORY AND PROGRAMS

History of the Peace Corps in the Eastern Caribbean

The Peace Corps entered the Eastern Caribbean in 1961, when St. Lucia became one of the first three countries

in the world to receive Volunteers. Since then, approximately 3,800 Peace Corps Volunteers have served on 10

island nations in the region. Volunteers were initially assigned to education, agriculture, health, youth, and

community development projects. The contributions of Volunteers in these areas have provided strong and

consistent technical support to the Eastern Caribbean for more than 50 years. Basic human needs programming

in the 1970s encouraged health, special education, preschool education, teacher training, forestry, fishery, and

livestock extension projects. The 1980s were a period that focused on four projects: education, health,

agriculture, and small enterprise development. In the 1990s, education, environment, health, developing

partnerships with nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and youth initiatives were priorities. 

History and Future of Peace Corps Programming in the Eastern Caribbean

Programming on each island nation of Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean is guided by the development priorities

of the various governments and their ministries, as expressed in official plans and budget documents. With its

partners, Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean periodically reviews programming on each island nation to ensure

continuing appropriate focus and direction.

In the summer of 2012, Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean assembled a project advisory committee (PAC) on

each island to review the current Community Economic Development project plan, which focused on four

sectors: youth development, institutional/NGO development, small business development, and prevention of

HIV/AIDS. The committees are comprised of government and community stakeholders, partners, community

leaders, youth, Peace Corps staff, and Peace Corps Volunteers. The PACs reviewed accomplishments achieved

over the six-year life of the project, current issues facing the islands today, and Peace Corps’ role. A decision

was made to revise the project plan to focus on increasing primary school literacy. This new project plan,

approved in September 2013, will have all of the Volunteers serving as literacy teachers in primary schools. In

addition to assisting struggling readers, Volunteers will engage in secondary activities that focus on youth

development. These activities can include after-school clubs, coaching sports, teaching life skills, facilitating

summer camps, etc.

Peace Corps Volunteers currently serve in four island nations in the Eastern Caribbean: Dominica, Grenada &

Carriacou, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Peace Corps Volunteers in the Eastern Caribbean work within the scope of activities outlined in the Primary

Literacy Project. Given your background and interest, you have been recruited to serve as a literacy teacher at

the primary school level.
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COUNTRY OVERVIEW: EASTERN CARIBBEAN AT A GLANCE

History

Although it has been claimed that Christopher Columbus discovered the Caribbean Islands, the Caribs and

Arawaks were the first known inhabitants of the lands that Columbus named the “West Indies.” His diaries

described the region as “a country full of precious things and unheard of wonders.” The lack of gold and

resistance by the Caribs and Arawaks led the Spanish to turn their interests toward Central and South America.

The islands initially served as a rendezvous for gold and pirate ships and later became bloody battlegrounds for

contending European powers. St. Lucia, for example, changed colonial hands no less than 14 times, ending up

as an English territory only after the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars. The West Indian historical legacy

includes social inequities, a one-crop economic base, limited opportunity for academic and vocational

schooling, a rapidly growing population, and high unemployment. Widespread poverty fostered social

upheaval, characterized by the emergence of labor unions and the eventual stirrings of independence

movements. Most of the island countries achieved independence in the 1960s and 1970s.

Government

The Caribbean is characterized by the Westminster system of government. Every five years, general elections

are held, and after the leader of the winning party is sworn in as prime minister by the governor general; he or

she then chooses cabinet ministers. The actual administration of each government ministry is the responsibility

of the permanent secretary, the chief civil servant. The governments all have a strong commitment to provide

social services such as free primary and secondary education and health services.

Though the island nations have not succeeded at attaining political unity, they were successful in establishing

the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) 20 years ago. This nine-member group includes all of

the Peace Corps island nations and oversees several areas of cooperation, promoting unity and solidarity

among the member states. The headquarters is in St. Lucia. The Caribbean governments have also established

the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM), a successful union that governs trade in the

region.

Economy

Island-nation economies remain based on single cash crops (like bananas) or tourism, which is the leading

growth industry. There is also some light manufacturing. In general, economic development in the Eastern

Caribbean is hampered by small domestic markets, a scarcity of trained labor, the absence of raw materials,

and, in some cases, inadequate transportation and marketing facilities. The island nations face many challenges

in the rapidly changing international economic environment.

Single-crop agricultural practices have been so pervasive that, despite favorable soil and growing conditions,

food importation remains very high. With preferential access and guaranteed prices in the European market,

countries had little incentive to work to diversify agricultural production. When the World Trade Organization

(WTO) ruled that indirect subsidies had to be removed, the small countries of the Caribbean found they could

not compete with other countries with lower costs of production. The island nations continue to struggle to find

ways to diversify their economies to avoid overdependence on a single area, like bananas or tourism.

Damage to Grenada as a result of Hurricane Ivan in 2004 was extensive. Emergency recovery projects

financed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and other international donors

supported the rehabilitation of the health-care and school infrastructure and the financing of critical imports.

Peace Corps Volunteers successfully implemented more than $65,000 in reconstruction projects and facilitated

the access of funding for other community reconstruction projects. There was also extensive infrastructure

damage in St. Lucia due to Hurricane Tomas in 2010. The effects of Tomas are still felt on St. Lucia today.
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There has been a recent shift in the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the region, resulting in a major developmental

problem. The epidemic has begun to disproportionately affect younger populations, in particular young

females. The major feature of the epidemic is the growing number of people living with HIV/AIDS and

affected families requiring care and support. The changing profile of the epidemic is dramatically impacting

not only the health sector, but also economic resources in the region as human potential and productivity

diminish.

People and Culture

People in the Caribbean are mainly of African origin (90 percent), with a sprinkling of East Indians,

Caucasians, and some of mixed race. Youth dominate the population in all the island nations. About 3,000

descendants of pre-Columbian Caribs still live on the island nation of Dominica, where they live in a reserve

on the east coast. There is another community of Caribs in St. Vincent.

The culture of the islands has been greatly influenced by their history, and it is often referred to as a “spicy”

Creole culture. It is the mixture of the African, French, British, and Spanish cultures that came together to form

this rich “potpourri.” The resulting French Creole language has disappeared in St. Vincent and Grenada, but

has remained alive and strong on St. Lucia and Dominica. Other features of this spicy culture are the cultural

festivals observed on the islands, such as carnivals, jazz festivals, Creole music festivals, Caribbean food

festivals, and Saturday “market days.” One of the unique aspects of Caribbean culture is the music: Reggae,

zouk, calypso, cadence, soca, and steel band music are true West Indian sounds.

Environment

The Eastern Caribbean is part of the chain of islands that lie between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic

Ocean. Some of the islands are volcanic in origin and are characterized by mountains, rivers, and lush valleys,

as well as long stretches of beaches with clear blue waters and golden sand. Their many rain forests abound

with hundreds of species of plants and animals, many unique to the Caribbean. Volunteers accustomed to four

seasons soon adapt to just two: the dry season during the first half of the year and the rainy season in the

second.
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RESOURCES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Following is a list of websites for additional information about the Peace Corps and Eastern Caribbean and to

connect you to returned Volunteers and other invitees. Please keep in mind that although the Peace Corps tries

to make sure all these links are active and current, it cannot be guaranteed. If you do not have access to the

Internet, visit your local library. Libraries offer free Internet usage and often let you print information to take

home.

A note of caution: As you surf the Internet, be aware that you may find bulletin boards and chat rooms in

which people are free to express opinions about the Peace Corps based on their own experience, including

comments by those who were unhappy with their choice to serve in the Peace Corps. These opinions are not

those of the Peace Corps or the U.S. government, and we hope you will keep in mind that no two people

experience their service in the same way.

General Information About the Eastern Caribbean

www.countrywatch.com/

On this site, you can learn anything from what time it is in each capital in the Eastern Caribbean countries to

how to convert from the U.S. dollar to the Eastern Caribbean dollar.

www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations

Visit this site for general travel advice about almost any country in the world.

www.state.gov

The Department of State’s website issues background notes periodically about countries around the world.

Find the country to which you were invited and learn more about its social and political history. You can also

go to the site’s international travel section to check on conditions that may affect your safety.

www.geography.about.com/library/maps/blindex.htm

This online world atlas includes maps and geographical information, and each country page contains links to

other sites, such as the Library of Congress, that contain comprehensive historical, social, and political

background.

www.worldinformation.com

This site provides an additional source of current and historical information about countries around the world.

Connect With Returned Volunteers and Other Invitees

www.rpcv.org

This is the site of the National Peace Corps Association, made up of returned Volunteers. On this site you can

find links to all the Web pages of the “Friends of” groups for most countries of service, comprised of former

Volunteers who served in those countries. There are also regional groups that frequently get together for social

events and local volunteer activities.

www.PeaceCorpsWorldwide.org

This site is hosted by a group of returned Volunteer writers. It is a monthly online publication of essays and

Volunteer accounts of their Peace Corps service.
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Online Articles/Current News Sites About the Eastern Caribbean

http://barbados.usembassy.gov/

Recommended Books

St. Lucia

1. Reynolds, Anderson. “The Struggle for Survival.” 2003. A historical, political and socioeconomic

perspective of St. Lucia.

2. Reynolds, Anderson. “Death by Fire.” 1999. An epic novel that provides an interesting mosaic of life

through its troubled characters intertwines history and culture.

3. Aubertin, Michael. “Neg Maron.” 2000. A dramatized historical perspective of the struggle for

emancipation.

4. Prudent, Therold. “Glory Days and Tragedy.” 2004. Chronicles the life of a character growing up in

Gros Islet, St. Lucia.

5. Lee, Robert & Hippolyte, Kendell. “Saint Lucian Literature and Theatre.” 2006. An anthology of

literary and theatre reviews.

6. Sankardayal, Clive. “The Brown Curtains.” 2005. Dramatizes the experiences of Guyanese living in

St. Lucia.

7. Wayne, Rick. “I’ll Be Alright in the Morning.” 1987. A subjective interpretation of recent and current

political personalities in St. Lucia.

8. King, Owen. “Conflict.” 2008. Written by a member of an established St. Lucian family, the book

describes familial tensions.

9. Harmsen, Jolien. “Rum Justice.” Explores the murder of a water taxi driver, and a quest to bring the

suspects, a wealthy American couple, to trial.

Eastern Caribbean

1. Compton, Jacques. “The West Indians: Portrait of a People.” 2009.

2. Selvon, Sam. “The Lonely Londoners.” 1956. Describes the experiences of West Indians who

migrated to London in the 1960s.

3. Thomas, G.C. H. “Ruler in Hiroona.” 2003. Describes a career in public service from the viewpoint of

a Vincentian.

4. McCanse, Anna. “Dominica.” 2011. A travel guidebook for Dominica written by a returned Peace

Corps Volunteer.

Eastern Caribbean Reference Books

1. Allsopp, Richard. Dictionary of Caribbean English Usage. 2003.

2. Dyde, Brian. Caribbean Companion: The A to Z Reference. 1992.
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Books About the History of the Peace Corps

1. Hoffman, Elizabeth Cobbs. “All You Need is Love: The Peace Corps and the Spirit of the 1960s.”

Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2000.

2. Rice, Gerald T. “The Bold Experiment: JFK’s Peace Corps.” Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre

Dame Press, 1985.

3. Stossel, Scott. “Sarge: The Life and Times of Sargent Shriver.” Washington, DC: Smithsonian

Institution Press, 2004.

4. Meisler, Stanley. “When the World Calls: The Inside Story of the Peace Corps and its First 50 Years.”

Boston: Beacon Press, 2011.

Books on the Volunteer Experience

1. Dirlam, Sharon. “Beyond Siberia: Two Years in a Forgotten Place.” Santa Barbara, CA: McSeas

Books, 2004.

2. Casebolt, Marjorie DeMoss. “Margarita: A Guatemalan Peace Corps Experience.” Gig Harbor, WA:

Red Apple Publishing, 2000.

3. Erdman, Sarah. “Nine Hills to Nambonkaha: Two Years in the Heart of an African Village.” New

York, NY: Picador, 2003.

4. Hessler, Peter. “River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze.” New York, NY: Perennial, 2001.

5. Kennedy, Geraldine ed. “From the Center of the Earth: Stories out of the Peace Corps.” Santa Monica,

CA: Clover Park Press, 1991.

6. Thomsen, Moritz. “Living Poor: A Peace Corps Chronicle.” Seattle: University of Washington Press,

1997 (reprint).
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LIVING CONDITIONS AND VOLUNTEER LIFESTYLE

COMMUNICATIONS

Mail

Few countries in the world offer the level of mail service considered standard in the United States. If you

expect U.S. standards for mail service, you will be disappointed. Mail takes from two to four weeks to travel in

either direction. Some mail may get lost in transit. Some letters may arrive damaged or opened. Since

communication with friends and family is a very sensitive issue for most Volunteers, please understand the

reality of international mail service. Advise your family and friends to number their letters and to write “Air

Mail” on the envelope.

Packages from family and friends are the responsibility of the individual Volunteer. Post office officials and

customs officers may open packages in front of you. You may have to pay hefty customs duties, although you

may get your packages duty free at the discretion of the postal official. Due to the risk of packages getting lost

in transit, it is recommended that you not have valuable items sent to you.

Telephones

Long-distance communication via telephone is available, but expensive. Most Volunteers find that they can

easily make or receive calls from the United States. Please note that “1-800” numbers are not accessible from

the Caribbean. All other numbers can be dialed directly. United States phone cards do not work here. You can

purchase the local “smart-phone” cards to call home or to make local calls. Many Volunteers have Internet

connections at home and use services like Skype, magicJack, or Microsoft Messenger to communicate.

Computer, Internet, and Email Access

Each Peace Corps office has a computer with Internet access for use by Volunteers. Internet cafes are available

in the capital, as well as in some towns and villages.

Some Volunteers have email and full Internet access in their home or work via providers in the Caribbean.

Volunteers here strongly suggest bringing a laptop and a thumb drive. Power quality problems may be avoided

with a good surge protector. As with all valuable personal property, bring a computer at your own risk and

consider purchasing insurance. Information is included in your invitation packet about affordable personal

property insurance.

Housing and Site Location

During training, you will begin to integrate and establish links with your host community. Your associate

Peace Corps director (APCD) will identify proper housing following your homestay. All homes will have

running water, either through a rain catchment system or delivered by pipes through WASCO, and electricity.

The houses will also be fully furnished and may even include a television set. Volunteer sites can be as close as

15 minutes and as far as 2 hours from the capital and the Peace Corps office. Volunteers will receive a settlingin allowance to supplement other basic items to get started.

Living Allowance and Money Management

The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar, and the same currency is used on all islands where

Volunteers live and work. The exchange rate is approximately $2.70 (EC) to one U.S. dollar. Traveler’s checks

can be cashed at any bank. Credit cards are widely accepted. Personal checks from U.S. banks can be cashed,

but it may take several weeks for the check to clear and for the funds to become available to you. All the banks

have ATMs, so you can access cash most of the time. Your ATM card will also work at most banks in the

region, but will provide only E.C. dollars.
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Your Peace Corps living allowance is paid in Eastern Caribbean dollars and is electronically deposited by the

first day of every month to the account that you will open at a local bank. You will receive more information

about banking facilities on your assigned island during training. The living allowance will cover all regular

expenses, such as rent, food, utilities, and other essentials. The amount varies according to the cost of living on

the island nation where you reside. You are strongly discouraged from subsidizing your income with money

from home. Part of the Peace Corps experience is living modestly at the level of people in your community.

Food and Diet

There is a wide range of food choices available in the islands. The Eastern Caribbean offers a wealth of fresh

fruit and vegetables, most of which can be purchased daily from fruit stalls and grocery stores. Many

Volunteers have been pleasantly surprised to find one or more fruit trees in their backyards, and many have

used yard space to grow such vegetables as tomatoes, lettuce, sweet peppers, peas, and beans. Many of the

vegetables available in the United States are also grown here and, while a few are seasonal, one can find

several different vegetables all year-round.

Volunteers who are vegetarians or vegans can buy produce and other items from the local markets.

Fresh fish is always plentiful, as is fresh meat and locally grown chicken. Volunteers are provided information

on the nutrition, preparation, and safety of local foods.

Transportation

Mini buses make travel easy and inexpensive. Volunteer homes and worksites are no more than a 30-minute to

two-hour drive from the capital. The buses may run until about 8 p.m., although a few areas have service until

midnight. For safety reasons, Volunteers are not allowed to drive automobiles or ride motorcycles.

Geography and Climate

The Eastern Caribbean, including Barbados and the Lesser Antilles, is the island chain that separates the

Atlantic Ocean from the Caribbean Sea. The Peace Corps places Volunteers on Dominica, Grenada &

Carriacou, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The islands are geographically divided into inner and outer chains. The inner islands are volcanic in origin and

are characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain, heavy rainfall, lush fertile vegetation, and many rivers.

Dominica alone has as many as 365 rivers. The inner islands include Grenada and its dependencies of

Carriacou and the southern Grenadines, St. Vincent and its dependencies of the northern Grenadines, St. Lucia,

and Dominica. The highest points of these islands are generally in the center, except for a few spectacular

sheer slopes on some coastlines. Most roads go around, rather than over, the islands. High points of elevation

vary from 1,000–5,000 feet above sea level.

The tourist brochures do not lie when they describe the islands of the Caribbean as lands of sunshine and

beaches. The first thing you must realize is that you are heading to two years of summer weather. The

temperatures make history if they go above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or below 70 degrees. The day–night range is

usually about 10 degrees, from 80–90 degrees in the summer months and 74–84 in the winter. The sun is hot

year-round, but gentle sea breezes from the northeast trade winds blow throughout the year and help cool the

air. The high humidity makes it easy to work up a sweat anytime during the day or night.

The rainy season generally lasts from July to December, but the amount of rain varies widely in different

locations. In addition, brief showers, sometimes downpours, are common in any month. Additionally, the

Eastern Caribbean is prone to hurricanes from June through November. The region can sometimes experience

a dry season from March to May. Other environmental concerns, especially in the banana-producing countries,

are deforestation, siltation, river pollution, and unplanned and inappropriate land use.
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Social Activities

There are a variety of ways to enjoy social activities in the Eastern Caribbean. Since you live on islands where

people are friendly and hospitable, the more friends you make and the more you join in the local activities, the

more you will enjoy your two years here.

All islands have local festivals, with Carnival being the biggest. There are plenty of shows, house and street

parties, and steel band concerts. Also, most islands have an annual jazz or Creole-music festival, which are big

cultural treats.

Outdoor sports are also popular among Volunteers and host country nationals. The islands have good hiking

trails, mountains for climbing, and dense rain forests you can visit, preferably with a certified guide. The

islands also offer wonderful snorkeling and a lot of warm sandy beaches for swimming and relaxation. For

sporting enthusiasts, there are several cricket, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and running clubs. Many

Volunteers have initiated sporting groups or clubs in their host communities.

Professionalism, Dress, and Behavior

The way you dress in the Eastern Caribbean is an important factor for how you will be perceived and accepted.

Though you may be inclined to wear shorts and tank tops, it is imperative that you dress in a manner that is

professional and representative of your role as a development worker in the community. While living and

working in your community, you are not a tourist and should not look like one. Casual clothing is only 

acceptable in your home and at the beach.

Visible body piercings and tattoos are not considered professional in Eastern Caribbean, particularly in

schools. As all Volunteers are placed in schools, visible tattoos and piercings are not permitted. Visible tattoos 

on arms, legs, face, neck, chest, or back are not acceptable for Volunteers and Volunteers with these types of 

tattoos cannot serve effectively in schools. In addition, Volunteers cannot display body piercings during their

service. This includes any facial piercings (including tongue piercings) and navel rings, as well as earrings for

men. If you have reservations about this policy and the degree of sacrifice and flexibility required to be a

successful Volunteer, please discuss this with your placement officer and carefully evaluate your decision to

accept the invitation to serve in Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean.

Male Volunteers are expected to wear lightweight slacks or khakis with a button-down shirt or polo shirt. The

same would be appropriate for women, in addition to modest skirts and dresses.

Please note that shorts, tank tops, half-shirts, tube tops, flip-flops, tops with spaghetti straps, T-shirts, strapless

blouses and dresses, and low-cut tops are not acceptable items of professional dress, whether your community

work is in an office or in an outdoor setting.

Personal Safety

More detailed information about the Peace Corps’ approach to safety is contained in the Health Care and

Safety section, but it is an important issue and cannot be overemphasized. As stated in the Volunteer

Handbook, becoming a Peace Corps Volunteer entails certain safety risks. Living and traveling in an

unfamiliar environment (oftentimes alone), having a limited understanding of local language and culture, and

being perceived as well-off are some of the factors that can put a Volunteer at risk. Many Volunteers

experience varying degrees of unwanted attention and harassment. Petty thefts and burglaries are not

uncommon, and incidents of physical and sexual assault do occur, although most Eastern Caribbean

Volunteers complete their two years of service without incident. The Peace Corps has established procedures

and policies designed to help you reduce your risks and enhance your safety and security. These procedures

and policies, in addition to safety training, will be provided once you arrive in the Eastern Caribbean. Using

these tools, you are expected to take responsibility for your safety and well-being.
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Each staff member at the Peace Corps is committed to providing Volunteers with the support they need to

successfully meet the challenges they will face to have a safe, healthy, and productive service. Volunteers and

families are encouraged to look at the safety and security information on the Peace Corps website at

www.peacecorps.gov/safety.

Information on these pages gives messages on Volunteer health and Volunteer safety. There is a section titled

“Safety and Security in Depth.” Among topics addressed are the risks of serving as a Volunteer, posts’ safety

support systems, and emergency planning and communications.

Rewards and Frustrations

Life as a Volunteer has abundant rewards. Your projects will start to flourish, your partners will learn and

grow, and you will start to feel comfortable in your new island home. You may also feel frustration when

things take too long to happen or do not turn out as you expected. People may not always show the level of

interest and enthusiasm you anticipate, or may not be prepared to make the changes you think are good for

them. It helps to have an open mind to be willing to accept change and to be willing to maintain a level of

flexibility as you figure out how to operate in this new place.

Volunteers are expected to observe the same work schedules, reporting procedures, leave-of-absence policies,

and access to agency resources as their co-workers. The way to overcome this is by setting your own personal

goals and remaining focused on them, even when progress seems slow and remote. Peace Corps life has its ups

and downs, good times and bad. Learn to enjoy the gains and look forward to these moments rather than

dwelling on the losses.

It is also important not to interpret “Volunteer” in the way some volunteer service is viewed in the United

States. Your assignment will involve being on the job day in and day out, following the same schedules and

protocols as your host country colleagues. You will not be able to casually take a few days off to travel to

another island or go off on a trip to visit family. There are opportunities for taking annual leave and vacation,

but the associated application procedures must be observed. As a school-based Volunteer, you can take

annual/vacation leave only when classes are not in session: Christmas break, spring break, summer break, and

on national or regional holidays. Failure to abide by these and other policies and procedures could be cause for

disciplinary action. The Peace Corps has more rules and regulations than you may expect. They are in place to

provide a structured and supportive environment, within which you will be safe and productive. Please note

that as a school-based Volunteer, you do not have the summer “off.” You will be expected to be involved in

secondary activities in your community such as summer camps, youth groups, library work, etc.

Being a Volunteer in the Eastern Caribbean involves a high degree of commitment. Projects are designed and

assignments are made with the idea that Volunteers will honor their commitment and work for two years. Host

agencies, sponsoring ministries, and local community members or students are counting on you to remain in

your position for a full term. Do not accept this invitation to service if you are not willing to make such a

commitment. These communities and organizations are counting on you.

Whatever frustrations and limitations may exist, Peace Corps Volunteers who serve in the Eastern Caribbean

consistently find the experience to be uniquely rewarding. There is a special kind of satisfaction that comes

from learning to live and work effectively in another culture. It soon becomes apparent that the experience

effectively contributes to your own personal and professional development, and to the development of the host

country.
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PEACE CORPS TRAINING

Pre-Service Training

Pre-service training (PST) is the first event within a competency-based training program that continues

throughout your 26 months of service in Eastern Caribbean. PST ensures that Volunteers are equipped with the

knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively undertake their assignments.

PST is conducted in the Eastern Caribbean and directed by the Peace Corps with participation from

representatives of Eastern Caribbean organizations, former Volunteers, and/or training contractors. Training is

nine weeks long, with the first six weeks conducted on St. Lucia and the following three weeks on the island of

assignment. The last week of PST on St. Lucia will include a “model school” where trainees will practice

literacy skills. Trainees will be evaluated to see that they have successfully achieved competencies before they

are approved to swear in as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

Throughout service, Volunteers strive to achieve performance competencies. Initially, PST affords the

opportunity for trainees to develop and test their own resources. As a trainee, you will play an active role in

your education. You will be asked to decide how best to set and meet objectives and to find alternative

solutions. You will be asked to prepare for an experience in which you will often have to take the initiative and

accept responsibility for decisions. The success of your learning will be enhanced by your own effort to take

responsibility for your learning and through sharing experiences with others.

Peace Corps training is founded on adult learning methods and often includes experiential “hands-on”

applications, such as the model school, conducting a participatory community needs assessment, and

facilitating groups. Successful training results in competence in various technical, linguistic, cross-cultural,

health, and safety and security areas. Integrating into the community is usually one of the core competencies

Volunteers strive to achieve both in PST and during the first several months of service. Successful sustainable

development work is based on the local trust and confidence Volunteers build by living in, and respectfully

integrating into, the Eastern Caribbean community and culture. Trainees are prepared for this through a

“homestay” experience, which allows trainees to live with host families during pre-service training. Integration

into the community also fosters language learning, cross-cultural acceptance, and trust, which are the

foundation for supporting a safe and healthy two-year stay.

Woven into the competencies, the ability to communicate in the host country language is critical to being an

effective Peace Corps Volunteer. So basic is this precept that it is spelled out in the Peace Corps Act: No

person shall be assigned to duty as a Volunteer under this act in any foreign country or area unless at the time

of such assignment he (or she) possesses such reasonable proficiency as his (or her) assignment requires in

speaking the language of the country or area to which he (or she) is assigned.

Qualifying for Service

The pre-service training experience provides an opportunity for the Peace Corps to assess a trainee’s

competence and also for trainees to re-evaluate their commitment to serve for two years in the Eastern

Caribbean. Mastering Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean’s competencies begins during PST but may continue

throughout a Volunteer’s service. A trainee must show adequate progress toward achieving the competencies

in order to become a Volunteer.

Eastern Caribbean’s competencies include the following:

1. Personal Safety and Security Competence
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2. Personal Health Competence

3. Technical Competence in Teaching Literacy Skills

4. Community Entry/Integration Competence

Evaluation of your performance is a continual process throughout service. Volunteers are responsible 24

hours a day, 7 days a week for personal conduct and professional performance. Successful completion of

pre-service training is characterized by achievement of a set of learning objectives related to the core

competenences. Failure to meet any of the selection standards by the end of training may be grounds for

disqualification from Peace Corps service.

Progress in one’s own learning is a dialogue between you and the training staff. All of the training staff—

including the training manager and the language, technical, medical, safety and security, and cross-cultural

trainers—will work with you toward helping you achieve the highest possible competencies and will provide

you with feedback throughout training. After reviewing and observing your performance, the country director

is responsible for making the final decision on whether you are qualified to serve as a Volunteer in the host

country.

Upon successful completion of training, trainees who qualify for Peace Corps service are required by law to

swear or affirm an oath of loyalty to the United States; it cannot be waived under any circumstances. The text

of the oath is provided below. If you have any questions about the wording or meaning of the oath, consult a

staff member during training.

I, (your name), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the

United States of America against all enemies, domestic or foreign, that I take this obligation freely,

and without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, and that I will well and faithfully discharge

my duties in the Peace Corps (so help me God).

Ongoing Learning

You are expected to improve your knowledge and skills in the areas of technical, language, cross-cultural,

diversity, health, and safety throughout your service as a Volunteer. Training staff provide learning objectives

during the 27-month continuum to help guide Volunteers throughout service. The manner in which you do this

may be formal, through tutoring or workshops organized by the host government or in-country staff, or

informally, through conversations and reading. The Peace Corps will also provide in-service training

opportunities, which includes a midservice training, specialized technical workshops, and a close-of-service

workshop to help you evaluate your service and prepare for your return to the United States.

The number, length, and design of these trainings are adapted to country-specific needs and conditions. The

key to the Peace Corps training system is that learning events are competency-based, designed, implemented,

and evaluated cooperatively by the Peace Corps staff and Volunteers.

Technical Training

Technical training will prepare you to work in the Eastern Caribbean by building on the skills you already have

and helping you develop new skills in a manner appropriate to the needs of the country. The Peace Corps staff,

Eastern Caribbean experts, and current Volunteers will conduct the training program. Training places great

emphasis on learning how to transfer the skills you have to the school and community in which you will serve

as a Volunteer.
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Technical training will include sessions on the general educational environment in the Eastern Caribbean and

strategies for working within such a framework, and teaching primary literacy. You will review your technical

sector’s goals and will meet with Eastern Caribbean Ministry of Education staff that invited the Peace Corps to

assist them. You will be supported and evaluated throughout the training to build the confidence and skills you

need to undertake your project activities and be a productive member of your community.

Language Training

As a Peace Corps Volunteer, you will find that language skills are key to personal and professional satisfaction

during your service. These skills are critical to your job performance, they help you integrate into your

community, and they can ease your personal adaptation to the new surroundings. Therefore, language training

is at the heart of the training program. You must successfully meet minimum language requirements to

complete training and become a Volunteer. If applicable, the Eastern Caribbean language instructors teach

formal language classes five days a week in small groups of four to five people.

Your language training will incorporate a community-based approach. In addition to classroom time, you will

be given assignments to work on outside of the classroom and with your host family. The goal is to get you to

a point of basic social communication skills so you can practice and develop language skills further once you

are at your site. Prior to being sworn in as a Volunteer, you will work on strategies to continue language

studies during your service.

Cross-Cultural Training

As part of your pre-service training, you will live with an Eastern Caribbean host family. You will live with

one family during the St. Lucia phase, and then with a second family during your island of service phase.

Please note that for Volunteers assigned to St. Lucia, you may have a second family during the second phase of

PST.This experience is designed to ease your transition to life at your site. Families go through an orientation

conducted by Peace Corps staff to explain the purpose of pre-service training and to assist them in helping you

adapt to living in the Eastern Caribbean. Many Volunteers form strong and lasting friendships with their host

families.

Cross-cultural and community development training will help you improve your communication skills and

understand your role as a facilitator of development. You will be exposed to topics such as community

mobilization, conflict resolution, gender and development, nonformal and adult education strategies, and

political structures.

Health Training

During pre-service training, you will be given basic medical training and information. You will be expected to

practice preventive health care and to take responsibility for your own health by adhering to all medical

policies. Trainees are required to attend all medical sessions. The topics include preventive health measures

and minor and major medical issues that you might encounter while in the Eastern Caribbean. Nutrition,

mental health, setting up a safe living compound, and how to avoid HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted

infections (STIs) are also covered.

Safety Training

During the safety training sessions, you will learn how to adopt a lifestyle that reduces your risks at home, at

work, and during your travels. You will also learn appropriate, effective strategies for coping with unwanted

attention and about your individual responsibility for promoting safety throughout your service.

Additional Trainings During Volunteer Service

In its commitment to institutionalize quality training, the Peace Corps has implemented a training system that

provides Volunteers with continual opportunities to examine their commitment to Peace Corps service while
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increasing their technical and cross-cultural skills. During service, there are usually three training events. The

titles and objectives for those trainings are as follows:

 In-service training: Provides an opportunity for Volunteers to upgrade their technical, language, and

project development skills while sharing their experiences and reaffirming their commitment after

having served for three to six months.

 Midservice conference (done in conjunction with technical sector in-service): Assists Volunteers in

reviewing their first year, reassessing their personal and project objectives, and planning for their

second year of service.

 Close-of-service conference: Prepares Volunteers for the future after Peace Corps service and

reviews their respective projects and personal experiences.

The number, length, and design of these trainings are adapted to country-specific needs and conditions. The

key to the training system is that training events are integrated and interrelated, from the pre-departure

orientation through the end of your service, and are planned, implemented, and evaluated cooperatively by the

training staff, Peace Corps staff, and Volunteers.
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YOUR HEALTH CARE AND SAFETY IN THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN

The Peace Corps’ highest priority is maintaining the good health and safety of every Volunteer. Peace Corps

medical programs emphasize the preventive, rather than the curative, approach to disease. The Peace Corps in

the Eastern Caribbean maintains a clinic with a full-time medical officer, who takes care of Volunteers’

primary health-care needs. Additional medical services, such as testing and basic treatment, are also available

in the Eastern Caribbean at local hospitals. If you become seriously ill, you will be transported either to an

American-standard medical facility in the region or to the United States.

Health Issues in the Eastern Caribbean

It is critical to your health that you promptly report to the medical office or other designated facility for

scheduled immunizations, and that you let your medical officer know immediately of significant illness and

injuries. Many diseases that afflict Volunteers worldwide are entirely preventable, but only if proper care and

precautions are taken. Food and water can pose a challenge to healthy living in the Eastern Caribbean. The

most common diseases affecting the Volunteers include skin infections, food poisoning, environmental

allergies, conjunctivitis (or pink eye), heat rash, swimmer’s ear, viral infections, diarrhea, urinary tract

infections, STIs, and dengue fever. Your medical officer will provide information on preventative care during

pre-service training. Other diseases prevalent in the Eastern Caribbean include STIs (especially HIV/AIDS),

alcohol and drug abuse, diabetes, and hypertension.

Helping You Stay Healthy

The Peace Corps will provide you with all the necessary inoculations, medications, and information to stay

healthy. Upon your arrival in the Eastern Caribbean, you will receive a medical handbook. At the end of

training, you will receive a medical kit with supplies to take care of mild illnesses and first aid needs. The

contents of the kit are listed later in this section.

During pre-service training, you will have access to basic medical supplies through the medical officer.

However, you will be responsible for your own supply of prescription drugs and any other specific medical

supplies you require, as the Peace Corps will not order these items during training. Please bring a three-month

supply of any prescription drugs you use, since they may not be available here and it may take several months

for shipments to arrive.

You will have physicals at midservice and at the end of your service. If you develop a serious medical problem

during your service, the medical officer in the Eastern Caribbean will consult with the Office of Medical

Services in Washington, D.C. If it is determined that your condition cannot be treated in the Eastern Caribbean,

you may be sent out of the country for further evaluation and care.

Maintaining Your Health

As a Volunteer, you must accept considerable responsibility for your own health. Proper precautions will

significantly reduce your risk of serious illness or injury. The adage “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound

of cure” becomes extremely important in areas where diagnostic and treatment facilities are not up to the

standards of the United States. The most important of your responsibilities in the Eastern Caribbean is to take

the following preventive measures:

Many illnesses that afflict Volunteers worldwide are entirely preventable if proper food and water precautions

are taken. These illnesses include food poisoning, parasitic infections, hepatitis A, dysentery, Guinea worms,

tapeworms, and typhoid fever. Your medical officer will discuss specific standards for water and food

preparation in the Eastern Caribbean during pre-service training.
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Abstinence is the most effective choice for preventing infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted

infections. You are taking risks if you choose to be sexually active. To lessen risk, use a condom every time

you have sex. Whether your partner is a host country citizen, a fellow Volunteer, or anyone else, do not assume

this person is free of HIV/AIDS or other STIs. You will receive more information from the medical officer

about this important issue.

Volunteers are expected to adhere to an effective means of birth control to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.

Your medical officer can help you decide on the most appropriate method to suit your individual needs.

Contraceptive methods are available without charge from the medical officer.

It is critical to your health that you promptly report to the medical office or other designated facility for

scheduled immunizations, and that you let the medical officer know immediately of significant illnesses and

injuries.

Women’s Health Information

Pregnancy is treated in the same manner as other Volunteer health conditions that require medical attention but

also have programmatic ramifications. The Peace Corps is responsible for determining the medical risk and the

availability of appropriate medical care if the Volunteer remains in-country. Given the circumstances under

which Volunteers live and work in Peace Corps countries, it is rare that the Peace Corps’ medical and

programmatic standards for continued service during pregnancy can be met.

If feminine hygiene products are not available for you to purchase on the local market, the Peace Corps

medical officer in the Eastern Caribbean will provide them. If you require a specific product, please bring a

three-month supply with you.

Your Peace Corps Medical Kit

The Peace Corps medical officer will provide you with a kit that contains basic items necessary to prevent and

treat illnesses that may occur during service. Kit items can be periodically restocked at the medical office.

Medical Kit Contents

Ace bandages

Adhesive tape

American Red Cross First Aid & Safety Handbook

Antacid tablets (Tums)

Antibiotic ointment (Bacitracin/Neomycin/Polymycin B)

Antiseptic antimicrobial skin cleaner (Hibiclens)

Band-Aids

Butterfly closures

Calamine lotion

Cepacol lozenges

Condoms

Dental floss

Diphenhydramine HCL 25 mg (Benadryl)

Insect repellent stick (Cutter)

Iodine tablets (for water purification)

Lip balm (Chapstick)
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Oral rehydration salts

Oral thermometer (Fahrenheit)

Pseudoephedrine HCL 30 mg (Sudafed)

Robitussin-DM lozenges (for cough)

Scissors

Sterile gauze pads

Tetrahydrozaline eyedrops (Visine)

Tinactin (antifungal cream)

Tweezers

Before You Leave: A Medical Checklist

If there has been any change in your health—physical, mental, or dental—since you submitted your

examination reports to the Peace Corps, you must immediately notify the Office of Medical Services. Failure

to disclose new illnesses, injuries, allergies, or pregnancy can endanger your health and may jeopardize your

eligibility to serve.

If your dental exam was done more than a year ago, or if your physical exam is more than two years old,

contact the Office of Medical Services to find out whether you need to update your records. If your dentist or

Peace Corps dental consultant has recommended that you undergo dental treatment or repair, you must

complete that work and make sure your dentist sends requested confirmation reports or X-rays to the Office of

Medical Services.

If you wish to avoid having duplicate vaccinations, contact your physician’s office to obtain a copy of your

immunization record and bring it to your pre-departure orientation. If you have any immunizations prior to

Peace Corps service, the Peace Corps cannot reimburse you for the cost. The Peace Corps will provide all the

immunizations necessary for your overseas assignment, either at your pre-departure orientation or shortly after

you arrive in the Eastern Caribbean. You do not need to begin taking malaria medication prior to departure.

Bring a three-month supply of any prescription or over-the-counter medication you use on a regular basis,

including birth control pills. Although the Peace Corps cannot reimburse you for this three-month supply, it

will order refills during your service. While awaiting shipment—which can take several months—you will be

dependent on your own medication supply. The Peace Corps will not pay for herbal or nonprescribed

medications, such as St. John’s wort, glucosamine, selenium, or antioxidant supplements.

You are encouraged to bring copies of medical prescriptions signed by your physician. This is not a

requirement, but they might come in handy if you are questioned in transit about carrying a three-month supply

of prescription drugs.

If you wear eyeglasses, bring two pairs with you. If a pair breaks, the Peace Corps will replace them, using the

information your doctor in the United States provided on the eyeglasses form during your examination. The

Peace Corps discourages you from using contact lenses during your service to reduce your risk of developing a

serious infection or other eye disease. Most Peace Corps countries do not have appropriate water and sanitation

to support eye care with the use of contact lenses. The Peace Corps will not supply or replace contact lenses or

associated solutions unless an ophthalmologist has recommended their use for a specific medical condition and

the Peace Corps’ Office of Medical Services has given approval.
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If you are eligible for Medicare, are over 50 years of age, or have a health condition that may restrict your

future participation in health-care plans, you may wish to consult an insurance specialist about unique

coverage needs before your departure. The Peace Corps will provide all necessary health care from the time

you leave for your pre-departure orientation until you complete your service. When you finish, you will be

entitled to the post-service health care benefits described in the Peace Corps Volunteer Handbook. You may

wish to consider keeping an existing health plan in effect during your service if you think age or pre-existing

conditions might prevent you from re-enrolling in your current plan when you return home.

Safety and Security in Depth

Serving as a Volunteer overseas entails certain safety and security risks. Living and traveling in an unfamiliar

environment, a limited understanding of the local language and culture, and the perception of being a wealthy

American are some of the factors that can put a Volunteer at risk. Property theft and burglaries are not

uncommon. Incidents of physical and sexual assault do occur, although almost all Volunteers complete their

two years of service without serious personal safety problems.

Beyond knowing that Peace Corps approaches safety and security as a partnership with you, it might be helpful

to see how this partnership works. Peace Corps has policies, procedures, and training in place to promote your

safety. We depend on you to follow those policies and to put into practice what you have learned. An example

of how this works in practice—in this case to help manage the risk of burglary—follows:

 Peace Corps assesses the security environment where you will live and work

 Peace Corps inspects the house where you will live according to established security criteria

 Peace Corps provides you with resources to take measures such as installing new locks

 Peace Corps ensures you are welcomed by host country authorities in your new community

 Peace Corps responds to security concerns that you raise

 You lock your doors and windows

 You adopt a lifestyle appropriate to the community where you live

 You get to know neighbors

 You decide if purchasing personal articles insurance is appropriate for you

 You don’t change residences before being authorized by Peace Corps

 You communicate concerns that you have to Peace Corps staff

Factors that Contribute to Volunteer Risk

There are several factors that can heighten a Volunteer’s risk, many of which are within the Volunteer’s

control. By far the most common crime that Volunteers experience is theft. Thefts often occur when

Volunteers are away from their sites, in crowded locations (such as markets or on public transportation), and

when leaving items unattended.

Before you depart for the Eastern Caribbean there are several measures you can take to reduce your risk:

 Leave valuable objects in the U.S.

 Leave copies of important documents and account numbers with someone you trust in the U.S.

 Purchase a hidden money pouch or "dummy" wallet as a decoy

 Purchase personal articles insurance
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After you arrive in the Eastern Caribbean, you will receive more detailed information about common crimes,

factors that contribute to Volunteer risk, and local strategies to reduce that risk. For example, Volunteers in the

Eastern Caribbean learn to do the following:

 Choose safe routes and times for travel, and travel with someone trusted by the community whenever

possible

 Make sure one’s personal appearance is respectful of local customs

 Avoid high-crime areas

 Know the local language to get help in an emergency

 Make friends with local people who are respected in the community

 Limit alcohol consumption

As you can see from this list, you must be willing to work hard and adapt your lifestyle to minimize the

potential for being a target for crime. As with anywhere in the world, crime occurs in the Eastern Caribbean.

You can reduce your risk by avoiding situations that place you at risk and by taking precautions. Crime at the

village or town level is less frequent than in the large cities: People know each other and generally are less

likely to steal from their neighbors. Tourist attractions in large towns are favorite worksites for pickpockets.

While whistles and exclamations may be fairly common on the street, this behavior can be reduced if you dress

conservatively, abide by local cultural norms, and respond according to the training you will receive.

Staying Safe: Don’t Be a Target for Crime

You must be prepared to take on a large degree of responsibility for your own safety. You can make yourself

less of a target, ensure that your home is secure, and develop relationships in your community that will make

you an unlikely victim of crime. While the factors that contribute to your risk in the Eastern Caribbean may be

different, in many ways you can do what you would do if you moved to a new city anywhere: Be cautious,

check things out, ask questions, learn about your neighborhood, know where the more risky locations are, use

common sense, and be aware. You can reduce your vulnerability to crime by integrating into your community,

learning the local language, acting responsibly, and abiding by Peace Corps policies and procedures. Serving

safely and effectively in the Eastern Caribbean will require that you accept some restrictions on your current

lifestyle.

Support from Staff

If a trainee or Volunteer is the victim of a safety incident, Peace Corps staff is prepared to provide support. All

Peace Corps posts have procedures in place to respond to incidents of crime committed against Volunteers.

The first priority for all posts in the aftermath of an incident is to ensure the Volunteer is safe and receiving

medical treatment as needed. After assuring the safety of the Volunteer, Peace Corps staff response may

include reassessing the Volunteer’s worksite and housing arrangements and making any adjustments, as

needed. In some cases, the nature of the incident may necessitate a site or housing transfer. Peace Corps staff

will also assist Volunteers with preserving their rights to pursue legal sanctions against the perpetrators of the

crime. It is very important that Volunteers report incidents as they occur, not only to protect their peer

Volunteers, but also to preserve the future right to file a complaint. Should Volunteers decide later in the

process that they want to file a complaint, this option may no longer exist if the evidence of the event has not

been preserved at the time of the incident.
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Crime Data for the Eastern Caribbean

Crime data and statistics for the Eastern Caribbean, which are updated yearly, are available at the following

link: http://www.peacecorps.gov/countrydata/easterncaribbean

Please take the time to review this important information.

Few Peace Corps Volunteers are victims of serious crimes and crimes that do occur overseas are investigated

and prosecuted by local authorities through the local courts system. If you are the victim of a crime, you will

decide if you wish to pursue prosecution. If you decide to prosecute, Peace Corps will be there to assist you.

One of our tasks is to ensure you are fully informed of your options and understand how the local legal process

works. Peace Corps will help you ensure your rights are protected to the fullest extent possible under the laws

of the country.

If you are the victim of a serious crime, you will learn how to get to a safe location as quickly as possible and

contact your Peace Corps office. It’s important that you notify the Peace Corps as soon as you can so Peace

Corps staff can provide you with the help you need.

The Eastern Caribbean is a relatively peaceful region with warm and hospitable people. However, while most

persons who work and visit here do not experience threats to their safety, it must be highlighted that over the

last two to three years there has been a marked increase in the number of incidents of crime on the islands,

including homicides, assaults, burglaries, and gang violence. In addition, certain areas such as the inner city

areas have become increasingly dangerous due to gang activity. Therefore, Volunteers should take all safety

precautions to minimize risks. For example, not traveling or walking alone at night, securely locking all doors

and windows when away from home and at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and, perhaps most important,

developing good relations with neighbors and community members.

The main crimes against Volunteers in the Eastern Caribbean have been petty theft and burglary. Stolen items

include money, cameras, laptops, iPods, and other electronic devices. Peace Corps staff, homestay families,

and community partners will guide you on safe areas and practices. Listen to and follow the advice of trusted

host country nationals while being alert and aware at all times.

Volunteer Safety Support in Eastern Caribbean

The Peace Corps’ approach to safety is a five-pronged plan to help you stay safe during your service and

includes the following: information sharing, Volunteer training, site selection criteria, a detailed emergency

action plan, and protocols for addressing safety and security incidents. Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean’s incountry safety program is outlined below.

The Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean office will keep you informed of any issues that may impact Volunteer

safety through information sharing. Regular updates will be provided in Volunteer newsletters and in

memorandums from the country director. In the event of a critical situation or emergency, you will be

contacted through the emergency communication network. An important component of the capacity of Peace

Corps to keep you informed is your buy-in to the partnership concept with the Peace Corps staff. It is expected

that you will do your part in ensuring that Peace Corps staff members are kept apprised of your movements incountry so they are able to inform you.

Volunteer training will include sessions on specific safety and security issues in the Eastern Caribbean. This

training will prepare you to adopt a culturally appropriate lifestyle and exercise judgment that promotes safety

and reduces risk in your home, at work, and while traveling. Safety training is offered throughout service and

is integrated into the language, cross-cultural aspects, health, and other components of training. You will be
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expected to successfully complete all training competencies in a variety of areas, including safety and security,

as a condition of service.

Certain site selection criteria are used to determine safe housing for Volunteers before their arrival. The Peace

Corps staff works closely with host communities and counterpart agencies to help prepare them for a

Volunteer’s arrival and to establish expectations of their respective roles in supporting the Volunteer. Each site

is inspected before the Volunteer’s arrival to ensure placement in appropriate, safe, and secure housing and

worksites. Site selection is based, in part, on any relevant site history; access to medical, banking, postal, and

other essential services; availability of communications, transportation, and markets; different housing options

and living arrangements; and other Volunteer support needs.

You will also learn about Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean’s detailed emergency action plan, which is

implemented in the event of civil or political unrest or a natural disaster. When you arrive at your site, you will

complete and submit a site locator form with your address, contact information, and a map to your house. If

there is a security threat, you will gather with other Volunteers in the Eastern Caribbean at predetermined

locations until the situation is resolved or the Peace Corps decides to evacuate.

Finally, in order for the Peace Corps to be fully responsive to the needs of Volunteers, it is imperative that

Volunteers immediately report any security incident to the Peace Corps office. The Peace Corps has

established protocols for addressing safety and security incidents in a timely and appropriate manner, and it

collects and evaluates safety and security data to track trends and develop strategies to minimize risks to future

Volunteers.
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DIVERSITY AND CROSS-CULTURAL ISSUES

In fulfilling its mandate to share the face of America with host countries, the Peace Corps is making special

efforts to assure that all of America’s richness is reflected in the Volunteer corps. More Americans of color are

serving in today’s Peace Corps than at any time in recent history. Differences in race, ethnic background, age,

religion, and sexual orientation are expected and welcomed among Volunteers. Part of the Peace Corps’

mission is to help dispel any notion that Americans are all of one origin or race and to establish that each of us

is as thoroughly American as the other despite our many differences.

Diversity helps us accomplish that goal. In other ways, however, it poses challenges. In the Eastern Caribbean,

as in other Peace Corps host countries, Volunteers’ behavior, lifestyle, background, and beliefs are judged in a

cultural context very different from their own. Certain personal perspectives or characteristics commonly

accepted in the United States may be quite uncommon, unacceptable, or even repressed in the Eastern

Caribbean.

Outside of the Eastern Caribbean capitals, residents of rural communities have had relatively little direct

exposure to other cultures, races, religions, and lifestyles. What people view as typical American behavior or

norms may be a misconception, such as the belief that all Americans are rich and have blond hair and blue

eyes. The people of the Eastern Caribbean are justly known for their generous hospitality to foreigners;

however, members of the community in which you will live may display a range of reactions to cultural

differences that you present.

To ease the transition and adapt to life in the Eastern Caribbean, you may need to make some temporary, yet

fundamental compromises in how you present yourself as an American and as an individual. For example,

female trainees and Volunteers may not be able to exercise the independence available to them in the United

States; political discussions need to be handled with great care; and some of your personal beliefs may best

remain undisclosed. You will need to develop techniques and personal strategies for coping with these and

other limitations. The Peace Corps staff will lead diversity and sensitivity discussions during pre-service

training and will be on call to provide support, but the challenge ultimately will be your own.

Overview of Diversity in The Eastern Caribbean

The Peace Corps staff in the Eastern Caribbean recognizes the adjustment issues that come with diversity and

will endeavor to provide support and guidance. During pre-service training, several sessions will be held to

discuss diversity and coping mechanisms. The Peace Corps looks forward to having male and female

Volunteers from a variety of races, ethnic groups, ages, religions, and sexual orientations, and hope that you

will become part of a diverse group of Americans who take pride in supporting one another and demonstrating

the richness of American culture.

What Might a Volunteer Face?

Possible Issues for Female Volunteers

Dealing with the behavior of some men in the Eastern Caribbean can be challenging to an American woman of

any age. There are no laws in the Eastern Caribbean against sexual harassment, so men are accustomed to

making all types of remarks when a woman passes by. These remarks may vary from a simple “psst!” to

“Looking good, baby!” to more sexually explicit solicitations. Even the local women whom they see every day

are not spared this verbal harassment, but they may be better prepared to cope with it.
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Volunteer Comments:

“So you are walking down the street minding your own business when you hear ‘Pssst, pssst!’ You wonder,

what is that? Where did it come from? Was it intended for me? You look around and see a man, older or

younger, good-looking or not. He is blowing you kisses and saying, ‘I like to see you.’ You look at him in a

variety of ways—disgusted, annoyed, or bothered. But any verbal reaction or recognition may trigger an

extended response. So you decide to ignore him and walk on. This is just one of the many scenarios a woman

may encounter while walking down the street, and it will happen more than once a day.”

“As a female Volunteer, there are things that I had to get used to. The men here yell out to women, especially

American women. Ignoring them, I have found, is the best way to handle it. After a while you won’t even notice

it.”

“As a woman in the Eastern Caribbean, you will have to deal with male harassment. There is no way of

getting away from it. The harassment can be in the form of catcalls, ‘pssting,’ and the list goes on. Sometimes

it will be that simple. At other times, a man may be more direct. He may sit next to you to talk, which may just

mean he wants to be your friend. Anyhow, it is important to mentally prepare yourself for this type of behavior.

If you don’t, then you’ll find yourself getting very angry all the time. It is also important to decide how you will

deal with these situations. Will you ignore the cat-calling, or will you be direct and acknowledge men before

the calling begins? The latter is a good tactic, as it most usually throws them for a loop. Your way of dealing

with this situation depends upon your personality. With time, you can and will get used to this behavior, and

the adjustment will be made.”

Possible Issues for Volunteers of Color

Volunteers of color face unique challenges in the Eastern Caribbean. An African-American Volunteer may

pass for a local in tourist areas, but be viewed primarily as an American by many West Indians. The key is to

come without preconceptions or expectations of immediate acceptance. Other minority groups may be called

by names that are stereotypical and not very flattering. Also, for many Caucasian Volunteers, this will be the

first time they are in the minority. The challenge is to create your own identity outside the stereotype. This is

usually easier to do in your own community than in areas where you are not known.

Volunteer Comments:

“When I walk down the street, I am called ‘Chinese’ or ‘Bruce Lee’ (even though I am a woman) or ‘Chiny.’

Not a day goes by that this does not happen. I believe this occurs out of pure lack of knowledge. This can

become frustrating, but I find that when I tell people I am not Chinese but from a Native American tribe, they

become interested to learn more about me. Then comes a cultural exchange that is all part of the Peace

Corps.”

“I remember at the beginning of my service, I felt incredibly overwhelmed as I approached schools full of kids

whispering ‘Chiny,’ speaking their own version of Chinese (‘ching ching chong’), or making karate noises

(‘hiyaaaah!’). Some days you are more patient than others, and you really do learn to pick your battles.

Ignoring works for some people and not for others. Those who want attention will continue yelling the

comments after you even as you walk past them. Generally, if I am in my own community, I make it a point to

stop and explain who I am. I refuse to feel uncomfortable in my own community. I find humor helps, and most

of the time it is just kids or men who want attention. The fact that you stop and give them attention makes them

a little more understanding and they almost always approach me differently and more respectfully the next

time.
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“Then there are others who are not doing it for attention, but just to make a joke and get a laugh out of their

friends at your expense. I find these to be the most frustrating situations, because I know they have no interest

in knowing who I am or I have no interest in knowing who they are. Cars will pass by sometimes, slow down to

make a comment while I’m walking on the road, and then drive off too fast for me to even respond. I’m left

feeling helpless. Or, a couple of people will be nearby and make comments loudly enough for you to hear

(‘ching chong wong’), but not directly speak to you. I feel while it is part of the culture to joke and laugh, these

comments are hurtful to me because I feel completely misunderstood.”

Possible Issues for Senior Volunteers

Senior Volunteers usually fare well in the Eastern Caribbean. They may not become victims of some of the

harassment that younger Volunteers face, but the same safety issues exist, especially when they are viewed as

tourists. Sometimes, seniors command a high level of respect from community members, especially in smaller

communities. At other times, they are questioned as to why they are there.

Volunteer Comments:

“When young Volunteers ask if you want to turtle watch, climb a mountain, or go to the woods for a weekend

camp, feel free to say no, and they will understand. I have found that a quiet evening enjoying a local dinner is

a better way for me to relax. However, go with a local friend or another Volunteer. I think that I am not

treated any better or worse than any other Volunteer. Being an older Volunteer is a joyous experience, so

come and enjoy what may be the best two years of your life.”

“It can be frustrating for an older Volunteer. Living with a host family, not being able to drive, and having so

many restrictions takes time to get used to. I do not think I had considered all that before I joined, but I do see

that Peace Corps is trying to adapt to having more and more older Volunteers coming in, so changes are

occurring.”

“It was different once I arrived on my island. The adjustment period rears its ugly head. Each of us copes with

the stress of adjusting according to our own strengths and weaknesses.The ages of the Volunteers assigned to

my island fell into the low 20s for most, to four women from 45–60 years old. We all coped differently. It was a

lonely time. I was forced to mine deep inner resources that I didn’t know I had. In conversations with my

fellow Volunteers, I found out that they, too, went through the same process. Age has very little to do with it.

Now that the stress has eased, I find I have made lots of friends of all ages, some within and some outside the

Peace Corps community. Strengthening these relationships is what the Peace Corps experience is all about.”

Possible Issues for Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual Volunteers

For LGBTQ Volunteers: 

Given the Eastern Caribbean’s traditional values, sexual orientation and non-conforming gender identities

might not be discussed openly. In some cases, the LGBTQ community may be stigmatized; legislation is in 

place in many Caribbean countries that may be used against those found to be engaging in sexual acts with a 

person of the same sex. Mindful of the cultural norms and country-specific laws, the decision to serve openly 

is left to each individual Peace Corps Volunteer. Many LGBTQ Volunteers have chosen to be discreet about 

their sexual orientation and/or gender identity within their host communities. Some LGBTQ Volunteers have 

chosen to come out to community members, with a result of positive and negative reactions, while some have 

come out only to select Peace Corps staff and Volunteers. Dealing with questions about boyfriends, girlfriends, 

marriage, and children may, at times, be stressful for LGBTQ Volunteers. You may find that the Eastern 

Caribbean is a less open and inclusive environment than you have previously experienced. Please know, 

however, that Peace Corps is supportive of you and Peace Corps staff welcomes dialogue about how to ensure 

your success as an LGBTQA Volunteer. 
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Many Caribbean people are intolerant of persons with different sexual orientations. Gay and lesbian 

Volunteers will have a hard time if they are open about their sexual orientation. Homosexuals can become 

subjects of continued harassment and violence. Some West Indians have religious objections to gays and 

lesbians and may shun or mock those who engage what they consider to be abnormal practices. Volunteers 

who wish to be openly gay in their communities should discuss possible implications of this with staff and 

other gay Volunteers before doing so. Your safety and effectiveness in your community could be jeopardized if 

you decide to be out.

More information about serving as an LGBTQ Volunteer is available at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, 

Transgender Peace Corps Alumni website at lgbrpcv.org. Additionally, the Peace Corps’ LGBTQ employee 

resource group, Spectrum, can be reached at spectrum@peacecorps.gov.

For Ally Volunteers: 

Peace Corps staff intends to create open, inclusive, and accepting environments. As an agency, the Peace 

Corps encourages Volunteers to serve as allies to their LGBTQ colleagues in order to create a safe 

environment.

Many LGBTQ Volunteers have served successfully in the Eastern Caribbean and have very fond memories of 

their community and service. LGBTQA support groups may be available in your country of service, providing 

a network to support the needs of the Peace Corps LGBTQA community. Peace Corps staff will work with 

Volunteers to provide them with locally informed perspectives.

Volunteer Comments:

“It is quite an experience to be out visiting friends and family at home in the United States and then, upon

returning to the Eastern Caribbean, having to go back into the closet. I expected the old-fashioned morality

among the local people, but imagine my surprise when I found that I was the only homosexual among 50 or so

trainees. Over time, I have fostered close friendships with fellow Volunteers on my island. This has provided

me with the opportunity to finally have people with whom I can vent my frustrations. I have also made friends

with local people, but such friendships are always tricky. I know, without a doubt, that if I were ever to reveal

who I really am, I would surely be ostracized by them and the community at large. I work in the schools with

children, and I must always be super-careful never to reveal any hint of my ‘abnormality.’ Despite the

adversities of my assignment, I am glad I came here. I enjoy working and living in the Caribbean. There are

the daily ups and downs, but I find the positives most often outweigh the negatives.”

“I realized that compromises would have to occur, but I do not think I understood to what extent. Peace Corps

staff has tried to establish support systems, but I realize that it is a very personal issue.”

Possible Religious Issues for Volunteers

People in the Eastern Caribbean are mostly devout Christians and take religion very seriously. They go to

church, pray, read the Bible, and generally engage in a variety of religious activities. Many American

evangelists travel to the Caribbean to hold crusades and are well-received. It is often expected that people

coming to live and work in the Eastern Caribbean will be active Christians. Volunteers of Jewish, Muslim, and

other faiths may be questioned about their religious beliefs and perhaps be subjected to discrimination.

Volunteer Comments:

“There is religion in every school, at meetings, even, at times, on the buses when you ride home in the evening.

This can make you feel uncomfortable when you don’t believe in God or when your religion is one that does

not exist on the island. Remember flexibility, patience, and tolerance.”
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“An avowed atheist, I eschewed any and all religious activities at home in the States. Yet, suddenly, in

response to a nation in which Christianity informs every aspect of daily life, my Jewish heritage and

upbringing have become a significant part of what I define as ‘home’—where I come from. And at the same

time, as this new understanding of home began to open up to me, my host family and neighbors traded antiSemitic comments, mimicking the sounds of the language that belongs to my family. The people who were

supposed to cushion my transition into West Indian culture were instead (albeit unknowingly) arousing my

anger and frustration at what I perceived as a lack of courtesy and sensitivity.”

Possible Issues for Volunteers With Disabilities

As part of the medical clearance process, the Peace Corps Office of Medical Services determined that you

were physically and emotionally capable, with or without reasonable accommodations, to perform a full tour of

Volunteer service in the Eastern Caribbean without unreasonable risk of harm to yourself or interruption of

service. The Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean staff will work with disabled Volunteers to make reasonable

accommodations for them in training, housing, jobsites, or other areas to enable them to serve safely and

effectively.

As a disabled Volunteer in the Eastern Caribbean, you may find that you face a special set of challenges. In the

Eastern Caribbean, as in other parts of the world, some people may hold prejudicial attitudes about individuals

with disabilities and may discriminate against you. Very little of the infrastructure is available to accommodate

individuals with disabilities that has been developed in the United States.

Possible Issues for Married Volunteers

Married couples serving in the Eastern Caribbean generally have very positive Volunteer experiences. They

support each other in integrating into the community, in evaluating progress in their assignments, and in

putting their challenges and frustrations in perspective.

Couples live together throughout their service and can opt to live apart or together during pre-service training.

In addition to their individual projects, couples usually can find opportunities for collaborative work as well.

However, given the small communities in the Eastern Caribbean, some couples may find the continuous

presence of a spouse leaves each with little privacy.

Married Volunteers may not want to participate in the same kinds of activities in which their single peers are

involved, and can find that they are left out of the social “loop.”

The female partner may be subjected to the same sexual harassment as a single female Volunteer. Generally,

most local men will refrain from such behavior when it is established that the Volunteer is married.

Volunteer Comments:

“After 22 years of marriage, the most challenging aspect of our experience has been learning to live and work

together 24 hours a day. Being married has its advantages: You have a built-in support system, a person to

share the duties, a sounding board for your frustrations, a security blanket, and a friend to share your

experiences.”

“Our primary assignments, health and community development, allow us to work independently, and this gives

us some welcome separation, although we do partner for many of our additional activities. For example,

together we conduct a parenting class for adults and an environmental club for young children.”

“Serving in the Peace Corps is an amazing experience, and sharing that with someone has been tremendously

rewarding. We applied for the Peace Corps while engaged, and left for the Eastern Caribbean five months
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after we married. Together, we set out on an adventure, which allowed us the opportunity to grow, learn, and

understand a new culture, new people, new environment, and, ultimately, more about ourselves and each

other. Although we come from different fields (special education and small business development), we work

more closely together than ever imagined because of the community development approach to our service we

have adopted.”

“Our days are now filled with schoolchildren, neighbors, friends, community development projects, lessons,

meetings, swimming, laughing, sweating, and loving life. Our town on the island of St. Vincent is a part of our

lives that we will forever carry with us. It is something that we will share and treasure for the rest of our lives.

That is one of the greatest benefits of serving in the Peace Corps as a married person: There is someone with

you, experiencing everything you experience, sharing everything you do, and who will never let you forget

your time in the Peace Corps once you return home.”
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This list has been compiled by Volunteers serving the Eastern Caribbean and is based on their experience. Use

it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that each experience is individual. There is no

perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything on the list, so consider those items that make the most

sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. As you decide what

to bring, keep in mind that you have a 100-pound weight limit on baggage. And remember, you can get almost

everything you need in the Eastern Caribbean.

How much luggage am I allowed to bring to the Eastern Caribbean

Most airlines have baggage size and weight limits and assess charges for transport of baggage that exceeds

those limits. The Peace Corps has its own size and weight limits and will not pay the cost of transport for

baggage that exceeds these limits. The Peace Corps’ allowance is two checked pieces of luggage with

combined dimensions of both pieces not to exceed 107 inches (length + width + height) and a carry-on bag

with dimensions of no more than 45 inches. Checked baggage should not exceed 100 pounds total with a

maximum weight of 50 pounds for any one bag.

Peace Corps Volunteers are not allowed to take pets, weapons, explosives, radio transmitters (shortwave radios

are permitted), automobiles, or motorcycles to their overseas assignments. Do not pack flammable materials or

liquids such as lighter fluid, cleaning solvents, hair spray, or aerosol containers. This is an important safety

precaution.

What is the electric current in the Eastern Caribbean?

It is 220 volts, although some of the newer homes have both 220- and 110-volt outlets. If you have items that

operate on 110 volts only in a 220-volt house, then you must use a step-down converter. The islands

experience power surges and occasional power cuts, so bring along a good surge protector. The surge protector

is especially important if you are bringing a laptop.

How much money should I bring?

Volunteers are expected to live at the same level as the people in their community. You will be given a

settling-in allowance and a monthly living allowance, which should cover your expenses. Volunteers often

wish to bring additional money for vacation travel to other countries. Credit cards and traveler’s checks are

preferable to cash. If you choose to bring extra money, bring the amount that will suit your own travel plans

and needs.

When can I take vacation and have people visit me?

Each Volunteer accrues two vacation days per month of service (excluding training). Leave may not be taken

during training, the first three months of service, or the last three months of service, except in conjunction with

an authorized emergency leave. Family and friends are welcome to visit you after pre-service training and the

first three months of service as long as their stay does not interfere with your work. Extended stays at your site

are not encouraged and may require permission from your country director. The Peace Corps is not able to

provide your visitors with visa, medical, or travel assistance.
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Will my belongings be covered by insurance?

The Peace Corps does not provide insurance coverage for personal effects; Volunteers are ultimately

responsible for the safekeeping of their personal belongings. However, you can purchase personal property

insurance before you leave. If you wish, you may contact your own insurance company; additionally,

insurance application forms will be provided, and we encourage you to consider them carefully. Volunteers

should not ship or take valuable items overseas. Jewelry, watches, radios, cameras, and expensive appliances

are subject to loss, theft, and breakage, and in many places, satisfactory maintenance and repair services are

not available.

Do I need an international driver’s license?

Volunteers in the Eastern Caribbean do not need an international driver’s license because they are prohibited

from operating privately owned motorized vehicles. Most urban travel is by bus or taxi. Rural travel ranges

from buses and minibuses to trucks, bicycles, and lots of walking. On very rare occasions, a Volunteer may be

asked to drive a sponsor’s vehicle, but this can occur only with prior written permission from the country

director. Should this occur, the Volunteer may obtain a local driver’s license. A U.S. driver’s license will

facilitate the process, so bring it with you just in case.

What should I bring as gifts for Eastern Caribbean friends and my host family?

This is not a requirement. A token of friendship is sufficient. Some gift suggestions include knickknacks for

the house; pictures, books, or calendars of American scenes; souvenirs from your area; hard candies that will

not melt or spoil; or photos to give away.

Where will my site assignment be when I finish training and how isolated will I be?

Peace Corps trainees will be assigned to individual sites approximately two weeks after they have started preservice training. This gives Peace Corps staff the opportunity to assess each trainee’s technical and language 

skills prior to assigning sites, in addition to finalizing site selections with supervisors and counterparts. If

feasible, you may have the opportunity to provide input on your site preferences. However, keep in mind that

many factors influence the site selection process and that the Peace Corps cannot guarantee placement where

you would ideally like to be. Most Volunteers live in small towns or in rural villages and are usually within 30

minutes to one hour from another Volunteer. From the capital, some sites require a one- to two-hour bus ride.

How can my family contact me in an emergency?

The Peace Corps’ Counseling and Outreach Unit (COU) provides assistance in handling emergencies affecting

trainees and Volunteers or their families. Before leaving the United States, instruct your family to notify the

Counseling and Outreach Unit immediately if an emergency arises, such as a serious illness or death of a

family member. During normal business hours, the number for the Counseling and Outreach Unit is

855.855.1961, then select option 2, ext. 1470; or directly at 202.692.1470. After normal business hours and on

weekends and holidays, the COU duty officer can be reached at the above number. For non-emergency

questions, your family can get information from your country desk staff at the Peace Corps by calling

855.855.1961.
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Can I call home from the Eastern Caribbean?

It is very easy to call to and from the Eastern Caribbean. Connections for the most part are good. Most PCVs

(if not all) buy cellphones during their training and can receive incoming calls with no charge to their minutes.

Calls to the States are expensive, costing around $2 per minute. Many Volunteers make calls to the U.S.

through programs like Skype or magicJack, which can be free.

Should I bring a cellular phone with me?

You may bring your cellphone as long as it is compatible with the Eastern Caribbean system. This means it

must be either GSM or TDMA. It may be easier to buy the phone and service together in-country once you are

assigned to an island in the Eastern Caribbean. You are encouraged to purchase a cellphone plan that services

your island of assignment. On a number of islands, all the Volunteers are on the same calling plan, making

intra-Volunteer calls free on that network. Please note that if you bring your own cellphone, you still may have

to pay up to US$75 or more to get it unlocked so you can use it in the Eastern Caribbean. If possible, bring it

unlocked from the States.

Will there be email and Internet access? Should I bring my computer?

The Eastern Caribbean is modernized and computer technology is common. Each Peace Corps office is

equipped with a computer for use by Volunteers, which offers Internet access. If you currently use email, be

sure to bring along all important addresses with you. Internet and email access may be difficult during training.

Internet access is available at some homes and is fairly inexpensive on some islands.

If you decide to bring your own computer, the Peace Corps recommends you insure it. Volunteers sometimes

find it helpful to have a computer for work.
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WELCOME LETTERS FROM EASTERN CARIBBEAN VOLUNTEERS

Dear future Volunteer,

Congratulations on your acceptance to Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean! Welcome to the family of PC/EC

Volunteers. I hope you enjoy it to the fullest and have a positive experience preparing for your service.

You may be taking time now tying up loose ends and getting ready for your two years in the Eastern

Caribbean. Peace Corps has told you already the importance of being flexible and coming into your service

with no expectations. This theoretical advice may be hard to put into practice totally, but is quite important.

I have to say that upon coming to Grenada, the expectations I had of my Peace Corps experience were vastly

different than the reality of life here. Everything in my environment was more luxurious than I ever imagined I

was signing up for, including my living space, the food available, the nice clothes locals wear, and the beaches.

Even the fact that English was being spoken was something I did not expect. At first,I was a little disappointed

that life seemed easier and more Westernized that I wanted. But, after going deeper, the subtleties of

Grenadian culture, challenges of being a Volunteer, and the richness of life became more apparent.

Both the challenges and rewards I expected from my Peace Corps service have been far exceeded in the last

two years. It took persistence and consistency to gain the trust of locals, and the fruits of the relationships are

what have made work life successful and social life meaningful.

That being said, my advice to you for now is this:

 Know your boundaries. Be assertive.

 Be open; stay positive.

 Bring nice work clothes! People in the EC look very professional.

 Take your time. There are many layers to people and culture in the EC, and it takes time to see past

the first layers. Your patience will pay off in work and in relationships you develop.

 Build upon what Peace Corps Volunteers have done before you (even if it is just reputation) and build

for Volunteers who will come after you.

Congratulations again! I hope your experience affords you all that you are hoping for and more!

Best regards,

Stephanie Rouch

Grenada
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Dear EC PCV,

Congratulations on officially completing the application portion of your Peace Corps experience! It is a long

and tough road, but knowing that your future travels through the route of service provides well-deserved relief.

As you begin to contemplate the reality of service in the Eastern Caribbean you will find yourself coming up

with more questions than answers. Or perhaps you are the kind of person that likes to jump right in, ready for

all of the surprises? Whilst preparing for my Peace Corps adventure, I most certainly fell into the first

category. I wanted to know everything and anything about the Eastern Caribbean that would provide me with

any inclination about what to expect when I arrived.

Over the last year and half I have developed a small appreciation for this brand of uncertainty: Every day has

the potential to expunge any expectations. That is the beauty of life as a Peace Corps Volunteer. Each day

provides me with the opportunity to become a part of something so uniquely foreign that I have found myself

completely enthralled by the Caribbean life.

My words of wisdom for packing: good shoes that are ready to take you on the journey of your life and

comfortable airy clothes that are easy to hand wash (jersey knits and jeans get very heavy). It is a daunting task

to prepare for the unknown, but the most important thing is to stay true to yourself. Pack with your hobbies in

mind. It may seem like a waste of space to pack the football or yoga mat, but those things are invaluable when

it comes to integration and de-stressing.

Best of luck! I know you are going to do great things.

Shruti Patel

Grenada

Future Eastern Caribbean Volunteers,

I wanted to let you know how excited I am for you! You did it! All of the hard work you put into your

application has paid off, and you have officially been invited to serve in the Peace Corps. As you embark on

this journey of a lifetime you will be exposed to many new experiences that will help you grow into a stronger

person.

Some of the best advice I can offer is to have an open mind and a positive attitude. Although you will face

many challenges along the way, being flexible with your job, with the people with whom you interact, and

even sometimes with running water and electricity, will serve you well. Finding joy in the small victories you

achieve will give you great confidence and perseverance to succeed in all that you do.

Also try not to put too much pressure on yourself by constantly planning for the future. I know that a lot of us

are always thinking about that "next step" in life (whether it be graduate school or finding a job back in the

U.S.), but be sure to take time to live in the moment and truly enjoy your experience. As a Peace Corps

Volunteer you are in an extremely unique situation. You are able to live with and learn from many people of a

different culture. So definitely take advantage of your well-deserved opportunity.
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Again congratulations on your acceptance into the Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean, and I wish you all the best

in your service.

Denver Sicay

Dominica

Welcome to the Eastern Caribbean! It is beautiful, peaceful, and very welcoming.

We are a retired couple serving in Grenada. We have been in the Caribbean for about six months, and have not

once regretted our decision to be here. Initially it was physically challenging for us with different terrain and

new environment, but with Peace Corps’ support we are well adjusted. Looking back, we are amazed at how

our bodies have adjusted and acclimated to the new environment.

In the U.S.A., we were working as volunteers for Ronald McDonald and Literacy Volunteers of America. But

we wanted to go abroad and experience a new way of life and serve globally. This idea was promoted by our

daughter, who is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer. Now that we are here in Grenada our desires are fulfilled.

Here we live among local people. We are experiencing a different culture, dialect, food, and environment. We

wanted to live simply. We are experiencing such life here. It gives us time to appreciate what we have in our

country. The weather is always hot here, the terrain is difficult, but it gives us a chance to adjust our life to

these difficulties. We swim here, we walk up and down; all these activities provide us a chance to exercise and

stay in shape after all. The slow pace of life is a change from what we were used to.

We miss our friends and family but we have means to contact them. The teaching assignment that Miqdad has

is wonderful. He has gained confidence, knowledge, and experience in teaching. He has expressed his desire to

teach as a volunteer once we go back to U.S.A.

You will probably hear it often, but folks in the Caribbean really dress up, so pack versatile clothing that can

be mixed and matched, keeping in mind that it gets hot here, so lightweight, light colors (deterrent for

mosquitos) and permanent press will work. Good walking shoes and sandals are a must. Also a positive

attitude will go a long way, so welcome to this lifelong experience. 

Sincerely,

Shagufta and Miqdad Husen

Grenada
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Dear soon-to-be Peace Corps Volunteer,

It is a true pleasure to offer my congratulations and welcome you to the Eastern Caribbean! You have likely

been working toward this point for quite some time, and let me reassure you that it was worth the effort and the

wait. Prepare to embark on a journey unlike any you have experienced thus far: one of learning, opportunity,

and adventure. You will soon begin months of rigorous training and eventually receive your community

placement and begin your assignment. You will make new friends and even family, and find yourself growing

in ways you never anticipated.

The Peace Corps experience offers unparalleled immersion into the realities of other countries, peoples, and

cultures. In the Eastern Caribbean this includes everything from adapting to the year-round heat to taking the

time to get to know your community and its customs, norms, and way of life. In the end, however, it all boils

down to the people. You have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to become intimately familiar with another

culture, while simultaneously sharing your own: an exchange of ideas and values that works to the benefit of

everyone involved. Do not enter your Peace Corps service with illusions about “helping people,” for becoming

a member of your community and being an effective Volunteer is far more complex than that. A good way to

frame your service can be summed up by Lilla Watson, who said, “If you’ve come here to help me, you’re

wasting your time. But if you’ve come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work

together.”

So go ahead, embrace the challenge. Prepare yourself to commit your heart and soul to another place and

another way of doing things, a different way of living, and of looking at the world. Despite challenges that will

inevitably come along the way, the rewards will counter and exceed them tenfold. The Eastern Caribbean has

warm, generous people, a rich and complicated culture and history, and exquisite natural beauty. The

experience, however, is what you make of it. Get out into your community and get to know those who live in

it, take a few risks and challenge what you accept to be “normal.” I am sure that if you do, you will fall in love

with your new country and consider it a second home, as I now do St. Lucia.

Best of luck as you enter into the most exciting and memorable 27 months of your life.

Patrick Zimet

St. Lucia

Dear Invited Eastern Caribbean Peace Corps Volunteer,

Let me firstly say, congratulations! You have finally made it past the extensive, tiresome, trying, and what may

have been a (extremely) frustrating Peace Corps application process! Welcome to the Eastern Caribbean

family and team of Volunteers.

When I received my welcome materials, I remember feeling a lot of disbelief, shock, and overwhelming

excitement. I’m sure you have some adjectives of your own to add to that list. After you (hopefully) accept

your invitation, things may get stressful. You have to say a temporary goodbye to the life you have known and

prepare for an entirely different one. The best advice I can give you upon arriving in the Eastern Caribbean is

to trust that everything is going to be fine and that when the time is right, you will know everything you need
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to know. This was a hard pill for me to swallow when I was where you are now, as I had a million questions. It

was a difficult time because I never felt like I had all the answers before leaving the States.

That is when I learned my first, and quite possibly the most important, lesson of my Peace Corps experience

thus far: When the time is right, I will know everything I need to know. I learned to accept that even though

you want to know everything as soon as you land, you won’t. And it is OK. There is a process to acclimatizing

and preparing for what is to come, so trust the process and trust that you will eventually be fully prepared: It

will not happen in a day. Even after your three or so months of pre-service training, you will not be fully

prepared. Once you have learned to accept this, everything gets far easier to handle.

My next piece of advice to you sounds very simple and a tad cliché, but it cannot be emphasized enough: View

everything with an open mind and do not make judgments—good or bad—so quickly on certain things you

observe. I remember thinking, as I was flying over turquoise waters and tiny islands with white sandy beaches,

Score! I’m headed to paradise! When you arrive here, everything seems moderately developed, not the “mud

hut” experience you were preparing yourself for. You may even wonder why Peace Corps is here. In moments

like these, keep an open mind. You will soon learn why you were sent here: Do not mistake surface

impressions. If you have friends who do the Peace Corps in other countries, you may hear them refer to our

post as the “Beach Corps.” Easy for them to say, right? Please know that life is not all beach here. You will

learn that quickly when you settle down in your village.

We are so excited to receive you here! The next two years are going to be the most memorable and rewarding

experience, if you let it. My time in St. Lucia has been a roller coaster through and through, and I love it. The

lessons I’ve learned about the Eastern Caribbean, development work, and about myself and my limits have

been beyond rewarding. I’ve never been so challenged, and working through the challenge has been so

fulfilling. So I leave you with my final piece of advice: Embrace the challenge. Everything is a lesson learned

at the end of the day. I wish you the best of luck with the transition out of the States, and see you here soon!

Maria Sebastian

St. Lucia
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PACKING LIST

This list has been compiled by Volunteers serving in the Eastern Caribbean and is based on their experience.

Use it as an informal guide in making your own list, bearing in mind that each experience is individual. There

is no perfect list! You obviously cannot bring everything on the list, so consider those items that make the most

sense to you personally and professionally. You can always have things sent to you later. As you decide what

to bring, keep in mind that you have an 100-pound weight limit on baggage. And remember, you can get

almost everything you need in the Eastern Caribbean.

General Clothing

People in the Eastern Caribbean dress more on the formal side for work and social occassions. Women wear

suits and heels to work in offices and Volunteers who do not bring proper work clothes may feel under-dressed

when compared to their colleagues. Teachers, both men and women alike, dress in neat, professional-looking

clothing at school.

For Men

 Summer suit or dress shirt and tie

 Short-sleeved, button-down shirts

 Cotton dress shirts (one or two)

 Long-sleeved shirt (one or two)

 Cotton polo-type shirts

 Light cotton sweater for air-conditioned venues (or a long-sleeved shirt can be used)

 Washable dress slacks/khakis

 Durable pants/shorts for outdoors

 Jeans—no patches or holes (one or two pairs)

 Cotton underwear and socks

 T-shirts

 Sports equipment and clothing

 Sneakers

 Durable walking shoes

 Professional black/brown shoes

 Sandals

 Swimwear

For Women

 Cotton and poly-cotton lightweight dresses (no strapless, spaghetti strap, tank-top style)

 A fancier dress with sleeves (or a shawl to cover shoulders)

 Skirts, slacks, and blouses to mix and match

 Cotton blouses or dress shirts

 Longer walking shorts
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 Casual pants

 Jean skirt

 Jeans—no patches or holes (one or two pairs)

 Cotton underwear, bras, and socks (several)

 Sandals (e.g., Tevas)

 Sports equipment and clothing

 Sneakers

 Durable walking shoes

 Sandals

 T-shirts/polo shirts

 Swimwear

 Light cotton sweater (for air-conditioned venues)

 Low-heeled, closed-toe dress shoes – or flats (two pairs)

Photos and Overnight Bag

Bring four passport-size photos (color or black-and-white) with you for local permits, visas for travel, etc.

You will spend your first week in St. Lucia in a training center. The Peace Corps recommends you pack an

overnight bag with a change of clothes for your first night and carry it with you on the plane.

Personal Hygiene and Toiletry Items

Unless you must use particular brands, there is no need to bring a two-year supply of any toiletries. Everything

you need is probably available on the islands. Bring contact lens solution (but remember the Peace Corps

strongly advises against wearing contact lenses). Women should bring a supply of tampons. There will be bug

repellent and sunscreen provided in your Peace Corps-issued medical kit, but if you have a favorite brand or

type, please bring it.

Miscellaneous

 One set of sheets (full/queen size)

 Towels

 Travel iron (must work on 220 volts)

 Travel clock or cheap waterproof watch

 Small set of hand tools or Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife

 Flashlight (small)

 Wattage converter/plug adapters

 Digital camera

 Favorite games and playing cards

 Sturdy water bottle (e.g., Nalgene)

 Favorite recipes
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 Handkerchiefs or bandannas (if you use them)

 Photos of family and friends

 Day pack or small backpack

 A small number of U.S. postage stamps (for sending letters with friends traveling to the U.S.);

consider purchasing the “forever” stamp to avoid having insufficient postage due to price increases

 Books (although each Peace Corps office has a large lending library)

 Favorite CD, DVDs, and iPod

 Large and small plastic storage bags (available on most islands, but more expensive than the U.S.)

 Journals

 Items for leisure time such as sports equipment, camping gear, and art supplies

 Unlocked GSM phone
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PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST

The following list consists of suggestions for you to consider as you prepare to live outside the United States

for two years. Not all items will be relevant to everyone, and the list does not include everything you should

make arrangements for.

Family

 Notify family that they can call the Peace Corps Counseling and Outreach Unit at any time if there is a

critical illness or death of a family member (24-hour telephone number: 855.855.1961, then press 2; or

directly at 202.692.1470).

 Give the Peace Corps On the Home Front handbook to family and friends.

Passport/Travel

 Forward to the Peace Corps travel office all paperwork for the Peace Corps passport and visas.

 Verify that your luggage meets the size and weight limits for international travel.

 Obtain a personal passport if you plan to travel after your service ends. (Your Peace Corps passport

will expire three months after you finish your service, so if you plan to travel longer, you will need a

regular passport.)

Medical/Health

 Complete any needed dental and medical work.

 If you wear glasses, bring two pairs.

 Arrange to bring a three-month supply of all medications (including birth control pills) you are

currently taking.

Insurance

 Make arrangements to maintain life insurance coverage.

 Arrange to maintain supplemental health coverage while you are away. (Even though the Peace Corps

is responsible for your health care during Peace Corps service overseas, it is advisable for people who

have pre-existing conditions to arrange for the continuation of their supplemental health coverage. If

there is a lapse in coverage, it is often difficult and expensive to be reinstated.)

 Arrange to continue Medicare coverage if applicable.

Personal Papers

 Bring a copy of your certificate of marriage or divorce.

Voting

 Register to vote in the state of your home of record. (Many state universities consider voting and

payment of state taxes as evidence of residence in that state.)

 Obtain a voter registration card and take it with you overseas.
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 Arrange to have an absentee ballot forwarded to you overseas.

Personal Effects

 Purchase personal property insurance to extend from the time you leave your home for service

overseas until the time you complete your service and return to the United States.

Financial Management

 Keep a bank account in your name in the United States.

 Obtain student loan deferment forms from the lender or loan service.

 Execute a power of attorney for the management of your property and business, or other personal

mail, such as outstanding bills.

 Arrange for deductions from your readjustment allowance to pay alimony, child support, and other

debts through the Office of Volunteer Financial Operations at 855.855.1961, ext. 1770.

 Place all important papers—mortgages, deeds, stocks, and bonds—in a safe deposit box or with an

attorney or other caretaker.
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CONTACTING PEACE CORPS HEADQUARTERS

This list of numbers will help connect you with the appropriate office at Peace Corps headquarters to answer

various questions. You can use the toll-free number and extension or dial directly using the local numbers

provided. Be sure to leave the toll-free number and extensions with your family so they can contact

you in the event of an emergency.

Peace Corps Headquarters toll-free number: 855.855.1961, Press 1, then ext. # (see below)

Peace Corps mailing address: Peace Corps

Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Headquarters

1111 20th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20526

For Questions About: Staff: Toll-Free Ext: Direct/Local Number:

Question about an invitation: Office of Placement ext. 1840 202.692.1840

Country information Abigail Kardel ext. 2509 202.692.2509

Desk Officer / easterncaribbeandesk@peacecorps.gov

Plane tickets, passports, visas, or other matters (including legal clearance):

CWT SATO Travel ext. 1170 202.692.1170

Office of Placement ext. 1840 202.692.1845

Legal Clearance ext. 1845 202.692.1845

Medical clearance and forms processing:

Screening Nurse ext. 1500 202.692.1500

Dental ext. 1562 202.692.1562

Medical reimbursements (handled by a subcontractor) 800.818.8772

Loan deferments, taxes, financial operations ext. 1770 202.692.1770

Readjustment allowance withdrawals, power of attorney, staging (pre-departure orientation), and reporting

instructions:

Office of Staging ext. 1865 202.692.1865

Note: You will receive comprehensive information (hotel and flight arrangements) electronically roughly

three to five weeks prior to departure. This information is not available sooner.

Family Emergencies (to get information to a Volunteer overseas) 24 hours:

Counseling and Outreach Unit ext. 1470 202.692.1470