Peace Corps

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Kennedy greeting Peace Corps volunteers, 1961

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Peace Corps headquarters

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Executive Order 10924 from NARA

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Madagascar Peace Corps volunteers swearing in, April 2006

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Peace Corps ad, State 1990-06- Iss 334 (IA sim state-magazine 1990-06 334) (page 27 crop)

Peace Corps is a volunteer program run by the United States government. Its official mission is to provide social and economic development abroad through technical assistance, while promoting mutual understanding between Americans and populations served. Established by Executive Order 10924 issued by President John F. Kennedy on March 1, 1961, and authorized by Congress later that year, the agency has sent over 240,000 Americans to serve in 141 countries.

History

The Peace Corps was established during the Cold War era as a part of Kennedy's New Frontier program. It aimed to counter the stereotype of the "ugly American" and "Yankee imperialism," especially in the newly independent nations of Africa and Asia. The idea was first proposed by then-Senator Kennedy during an impromptu speech at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, on October 14, 1960. The enthusiastic response from students to his challenge of serving their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries led to the establishment of the Peace Corps.

Mission and Goals

The Peace Corps' mission has three simple goals:

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

Volunteer Work

Volunteers are American citizens, typically with a college degree, who work abroad for a period of two years after three months of training. They are assigned to projects that fit their skills and interests, in sectors such as education, health, community economic development, environment, agriculture, and youth in development. Despite the challenges, many volunteers find their service to be a transformative experience, leading to a lifelong commitment to service and global engagement.

Administration and Structure

The Peace Corps is headed by a Director, nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The agency is organized into regional offices that oversee programs in specific countries. The Peace Corps maintains a headquarters in Washington, D.C., and has a network of recruitment and support offices throughout the United States.

Impact and Criticism

The impact of the Peace Corps has been widely debated. Proponents argue that it has been effective in promoting international understanding and goodwill, and in providing valuable assistance to developing countries. Critics, however, contend that its impact has been minimal and that it sometimes serves more as a tool of American foreign policy than as a genuine development agency. Despite these criticisms, the Peace Corps remains a unique and iconic American institution, known for its commitment to service and peace.

See Also

• Volunteerism
• International development
• Cultural exchange

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