Asunción, Agencia IP.- On the program Tribuna, broadcast by Paraguay TV, Peace Corps volunteer Ian Blume shared his experience in Paraguay, highlighting the value of cultural exchange, the impact of community work, and the future of this program, which has been operating in the country for decades.
Blume, who serves in the department of Caaguazú, explained that Peace Corps volunteering is carried out within the framework of a bilateral agreement between the United States and Paraguay, in effect since 1967, focused on three main areas: economic development, health, and the environment.
«The service we provide is completely neutral, both religiously and politically. We come to collaborate as facilitators, not as protagonists,» he noted, while clarifying some stereotypes that still persist around the program. «Many think we are missionaries or even spies, but our task is to support community processes alongside our local partners,» he stated.
More than five decades of presence in the country
Since its implementation, the program has had approximately 5,300 volunteers participate in Paraguay. Currently, the country hosts about 150 volunteers, a number that is renewed every two years with the arrival of new cohorts.
Blume commented that the selection process is rigorous and can last for almost a year, and includes academic, psychological, and background checks. Basic requirements include U.S. citizenship and a university degree.
Once in the country, the volunteers go through a ten-week adaptation period, during which they live with host families, learn the language, and become familiar with the local culture before being assigned to different communities, both rural and urban.
Cultural exchange and mutual learning
The volunteer emphasized that one of the most enriching aspects of the experience is the cultural exchange. «Everything we do is thanks to Paraguay opening its doors to us. We share tereré, chipa, chipa guasu, and vori vori, and we also learn Guaraní. It’s a profoundly human experience,» he expressed.
He also highlighted that learning is not unidirectional but is built jointly with communities. «There is growth on both sides. We learn from them, and they also discover a new way of seeing Americans,» he indicated.
Personal stories and transformation
With a degree in International Relations from George Washington University, Blume came to Paraguay seeking a greater understanding of Latin America and its social dynamics. However, he affirms that the experience exceeded his expectations.
«Paraguay was the best decision of my life. It taught me to step outside my comfort zone, to live more peacefully, and to value human connection,» he stated.
During his stay, he not only carried out his community work but also built significant personal connections. He even met his current fiancée, a Brazilian medical student, in the same community.
Challenges and lessons learned
Among the main challenges, he mentioned adapting to a new economic and social reality and the change in the pace of life. «Going from working in a city like Miami to living in a rural community involves a significant adjustment, but it’s also an opportunity for growth,» he explained.
Regarding language, he noted that Spanish facilitated his integration, while acknowledging the complexity of Guarani and the linguistic richness of the country.
Looking to the future
Blume, who will conclude his service at the end of May, said that he is taking away from Paraguay a profound understanding of the region, as well as a significant personal transformation.
«Volunteering is a way to contribute to the community, but also to transform oneself. Beyond what it might look like on a resume, it’s a life-changing experience,» he stated.
Finally, he emphasized the program’s value as a tool for international cooperation and building ties between countries. «The fact that the Peace Corps has been present in Paraguay for so many decades demonstrates the strength of this relationship,» he concluded.
With the arrival of new volunteers expected in the coming months, the program will continue to strengthen its presence in the country, promoting community development and intercultural understanding as fundamental pillars.
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