Peace Corps Volunteers

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The initial reactions to the Peace Corps proposal are convincing proof that we have, in this country, an immense reservoir of such men and women-anxious to sacrifice their energies and time and toil to the cause of world peace and human progress.

By President John F. Kennedy 1961

The Peace Corps finds its roots In 1960,  when students of the University of Michigan were challenged by then Senator John F. Kennedy. In an effort to promote peace worldwide, he urged them to serve their country by working and living in developing countries. 

Since its official founding in 1961, over 200,000 volunteers have served with the Peace Corps in 139 different countries. Work areas include Education, Health & HIV/AIDS, Business Development, Environment, Youth Development, and Agriculture. Working in small villages and towns all over the world, not only do volunteers help people rebuild themselves and their community, but they also create a positive image of the United States abroad.

The Peace Corps’ mission is as follows:

1. Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.
   2. Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.
   3. Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of the Americans.