AmeriCorps Connections

Connecting Through Service: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Journeys

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, hosted by Nicki Fiocco, we explore the inspiring story of Sadie Botin, a dual service member who has served both in AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Sadie shares her journey from her AmeriCorps service in a refugee resettlement agency in Iowa to her impactful Peace Corps experience in Eswatini, focusing on community projects, and the strong relationships she built. The discussion also highlights the challenges and emotional resonances of such service, concluding with reflections on the broader impact and personal growth derived from these experiences.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:22 Introducing the Peace Corps Series
01:09 Support the Podcast on Patreon
01:36 Special Thanks to Sharon Tewksbury Bloom
01:56 Meet Sadie Botin
02:06 What is the Peace Corps?
03:26 Sadie's AmeriCorps Journey
05:55 Challenges and Rewards of AmeriCorps Service
07:52 Reflections on Refugee Resettlement
15:56 Transitioning to Peace Corps
19:32 Applying and Preparing for Peace Corps
26:08 Arriving in Eswatini
31:38 Starting the Journey: Training and Community Assignment
32:06 Building Relationships and Early Challenges
34:48 The Library Project: A Labor of Love
36:09 Personal Reflections on Reading and Education
39:34 The Footbridge Project: Community Collaboration
44:09 Saying Goodbye: Closing Out the Peace Corps Service
48:31 Life After Peace Corps: Career and Education
56:35 AmeriCorps and Alumni Engagement

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United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections
🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

What is AmeriCorps Connections?

The AmeriCorps Connections Podcast is a space where alumni, members, and partners share how national service shapes careers, communities, and lives. Hosted by AmeriCorps alum Nicki Fiocco, each episode highlights stories of resilience, leadership, and purpose—showing that while service terms may end, the impact and connections continue.

Tune in each week on your favorite podcast platform to listen, follow, subscribe, and share. Check it out and be part of the ongoing story of service.

Watch the conversation on You Tube - https://www.youtube.com/@americorpsconnections
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