“I am drawn to assisting the poor and especially those in chronic poverty,” the 48-year-old said in a statement before departing in November for the Republic of Namibia, which in 1990 both won its independence from South Africa and became one of the Peace Corps’ 139 host countries. “I want to share the skills I’ve been privileged to develop.”
Sandra Trifiro to serve as Peace Corps Volunteer in Namibia
Sandy Springs resident joins Peace Corps
By By Noreen Lewis Cochran
ncochran@neighbornewspapers.com
Although older than the average Peace Corps volunteers — the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization estimates that its ambassadors’ median age is 25 — Sandra Trifiro of Sandy Springs said she is eager to make a difference.
“I am drawn to assisting the poor and especially those in chronic poverty,” the 48-year-old said in a statement before departing in November for the Republic of Namibia, which in 1990 both won its independence from South Africa and became one of the Peace Corps’ 139 host countries. “I want to share the skills I’ve been privileged to develop.”
Ms. Trifiro, who earned a master’s degree in technology from Mercer University in Atlanta in 1994, will be teaching computer science to students and other teachers.
In return, the St. Pius X High School graduate will receive life lessons, according to Peace Corps spokeswoman Melissa Hereford.
“During the first three months of her service, Ms. Trifiro will live with a host family in Namibia to become fully immersed in the country’s language and culture,” Ms. Hereford said in a statement about the country where the official language is English but seven tribal dialects are spoken. “After acquiring the language and cultural skills necessary to assist her community, Ms. Trifiro will serve for two years in Namibia, living in a manner similar to people in her host country.”
Ms. Hereford said Ms. Trifiro, daughter of Virginia and Warren Trifiro of Sandy Springs, previously worked for a variety of nonprofits helping at-risk populations like runaway youth, incarcerated men and women and the elderly.
According to the Central Intelligence Agency World Factbook, while their country has reserves of diamonds and oil, 60 percent of Namibian residents live below the poverty level. Residents have a high mortality rate from AIDS and an average life expectancy of 44 years.
