My Hanukkah Miracle in Costa Rica
An RPCV shares how his Jewish heritage and the traditions of Hanukkah helped nurture camaraderie and memorable bonds between him and the community he served as a Volunteer in Costa Rica. By Joel Rubin (Costa Rica 1994–96) We’re now in the holiday season, including the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. This holiday has always been special to me because it spiritually connects the Jews of today to the Jews of 2,200 years ago, when we fought to maintain our identity and community. When I joined the Peace Corps, I knew that I’d be going to a distant country to live in a community where I...
An RPCV’s Holiday Reflections
An RPCV reflects on the holidays she spent overseas and how those shared moments nurtured a sense of belonging with her, her host families, and fellow Peace Corps friends. By Molly O'Brien (Jordan 2014–15, Thailand 2016–18) The holiday season always reminds me of my Peace Corps service. Within a month of arriving in my first country of service, Jordan, we were celebrating Thanksgiving. It was my first time away from my family for a major holiday. Although I felt a little homesick, the experience nurtured a sense of belonging with my new Peace Corps family. Then, next thing I knew I was a...