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Mar 1, 2022Liked by Devin Thorpe

Thank you for this story, Devin. Everyone I’ve ever met who has served in the Peace Corps has told me the experience was life-changing… and there is a special bond between those who have served in this unique way. At a time when people across the world face seeming insurmountable crises, from environmental devastation to pandemics to wars, may we rise up together in courageous, compassionate service to one another & our planet.

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You are confirming Allan's experience in a powerful way. I fear I've met too few people with Allan's experience. I'm grateful for all those willing to serve as he did. Did you serve in the Peace Corps?

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Mar 1, 2022Liked by Devin Thorpe

No….I chose a different path after my degree in International Relations/Russian Area Studies. Throughout my careers in tech, the nonprofit sector, & philanthropy, I’ve continued to volunteer with & support refugee resettlement organizations. The first Jewish refugee families I met in DC & SF in the early 80’s were from the USSR, from what is now Ukraine & Moldova, & in recent years, the Utah families I met who resettled from Bosnia & Afghanistan, have all shaped my involvement in human rights, trauma stewardship, & higher ed. I traveled to Ukraine, Lithuania, & Latvia years ago when I studied in Leningrad/USSR, & my heart goes out to Ukrainians & the neighboring countries who are mobilizing to protect each other & defend against this horrific Russian re-invasion. May the humanitarian community & world leaders continue to use their Superpowers for Good in especially creative ways to support people worldwide as they navigate perilous & chaotic times.

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Mary, I can feel the pain in your words. I'm so sorry. You've invested so much in these vulnerable communities, you must feel a bit like Putin's invasion is a personal insult. It is objectively horrific.

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