Peer Support and Diversity Network

 

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Download (Current Volunteers Only):

New Member Application 2011

Mission Statement

The Peer Support and Diversity Network (PSDN) seeks to support Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) by addressing emotional needs in a non-judgmental atmosphere by trained Peer Supporters; to offer information and resources contributing to increased adjustment and emotional resiliency resulting in a positive, safe, healthy and productive Peace Corps service; and to promote a Peace Corps environment where diversity of all kinds is respected and supported.

Who are we and what do we do?

The Peer Support and Diversity Network (PSDN) is an emotional and mental support network that addresses the needs of our fellow Burkina Faso Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) in a non-judgmental and confidential manner.

We are a committee of 12 members strong, representing all four sectors (Secondary Education [SE], Non-Formal Education, Community Enterprise Development [CED] and Health(HE), have a minimum of at least six months of Peace Corps experience and reign from various geographical regions of the U.S. PSDN meetings are held six (6) times a year at the Peace Corps Burkina Faso headquarters in Ouagadougou. Our staff liaison is Peace Corps Medical Officer (PCMO) Jean-Luc Eyango.

In addition to being a support network for our peers through the fielding of phone calls and in-person conversations, we serve as a liaison between PCVs and Peace Corps Burkina Faso staff, ensuring that the needs of all PCVs are met and understood. We provide crisis assistance as appropriate, develop diversity awareness amongst PCVs and staff members, and assist the PCMOs in trainings (notably Pre-Service Training and In-Service Training) and the development of training materials.

Executive Board & Sub-Committee Members 2012-13

  • Co-Chairs:
    • Mckenna Radunzel
    • Sam Gradess
  • Training Coordinators:
    • Sudakshina Chattopadhyay
    • Patrick Williams
  • Secretary:
    • Jose Archiniega
  • Treasurer:
    • Edward Davis
  • Staff Liaison:
    • Jean-Luc Eyango
  • Special Events & Outreach Committee:
    • Marci Kirchberg
    • Nicholas Salmen
  • Newsletter Committee:
    • Adam Kukulka
    • David Benhammou

 

Jean-Luc Eyango