Kentwood grad joins Peace Corps

Kent resident James Hong, 24, is training in Cambodia as a Peace Corps volunteer.

  • BY Wire Service
  • Monday, August 18, 2008 7:45pm
  • News
Kent resident James Hong

Kent resident James Hong

Kent resident James Hong, 24, is training in Cambodia as a Peace Corps volunteer.

Hong departed for Cambodia July 22 to begin pre-service training as an education Peace Corps volunteer. Upon graduation in October, Hong will teach English, develop educational materials, and facilitate after-school clubs and programs in Cambodia.

Hong is the son of Nam and Huong Hong, and a graduate of Kentwood High School. He attended the University of Washington in Seattle, and graduated this year with a master’s degree in educational psychology.

“I wanted to serve the international community and promote peace and goodwill to our friends around the world,” said Hong about his decision to join the Peace Corps.

During the first three months of his service, Hong will live with a host family in Cambodia to become fully immersed in the country’s language and culture. Hong will serve for two years in Cambodia, living in a manner similar to people in his host country.

Hong is one of 363 Washington residents currently serving in the Peace Corps. More than 7,911 Washington residents have served in the Peace Corps since 1961.

The Peace Corps is an independent agency of the federal government that aims to promote world peace and friendship. For more information about the Peace Corps, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.peacecorps.gov/application.




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