2005 press releases

March 22, 2005

Congresswoman McCollum Meets with Minnesota Volunteers Helping

Panama's Poor This week, Congresswoman Betty McCollum visited a Peace Corps site near Panama City where she learned about the most pressing needs of Panama's rural poor.

McCollum was accompanied by Minnesota volunteers working side-by-side with members of the indigenous community of Ipetí Emberá, led by a woman chief.

"The volunteers with me today are helping to strengthen the ties of friendship and understanding between our country and the people of Panama," said McCollum. "Minnesotans are making significant and lasting contributions around the world."

Minnesota has a strong tradition of service. Colleges and universities in Minnesota are among the top producers of Peace Corps volunteers around the world.

McCollum traveled to Panama as a member of a congressional delegation led by Rep. Henry Hyde (R-IL), chairman of the House International Relations Committee.