BANGOR – Bangor resident Edward French has accepted a two-year assignment with the Peace Corps to serve as a health volunteer in Tanzania, Africa. French will leave for training in Tanzania on June 15.

During his 27 months in Tanzania, French will work with host country nationals to improve the health of Tanzanians by promoting healthy behavior through education and awareness on a wide range of issues. French will work with teachers and students to develop education programs to address local health conditions and challenges.

French graduated from the University of Maine in 1969 and began graduate studies at the University Connecticut School of Social Work. He graduated in 1979 with a master’s degree in social work.

Back in Maine, he worked for Sweetser as director of child and family community based services until July 2004. Most recently, he worked for Innovative Fitness as director of marketing and development and as a consultant to the Maine Children’s Alliance.

“As a 63-year-old, I thought I was going to retire, but I’m not ready yet. The Peace Corps affords an exciting opportunity and challenge for me to continue to use my skills and abilities in service to others. Especially today, I am inspired by the Peace Corps mission,” French said.

There are 187 Peace Corps volunteers serving in Tanzania. Facing severe land degradation, lack of teachers and a growing threat of AIDS, Tanzania struggles to sustain development. Volunteers work to help Tanzanians overcome these and other challenges through programs dedicated to small business development, youth development, health, the environment and agriculture.

More than 178,000 Americans have served in 138 countries since President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order creating the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961. Peace Corps assignments include working to help fight hunger, bringing clean water to communities, teaching children, helping to start small businesses and stopping the spread of AIDS.

Volunteers can earn credit toward a graduate degree while serving or find ways to offset graduate school costs with fellowships offered to volunteers who have returned from service. To obtain information about the Peace Corps, call (800) 424-8580, or visit www.peacecorps.gov.