Peace Corps

Hello! We are the Peace Corps. We are an independent agency of the United States government, and we have a special mission. Our story began on March 1st, 1961, when we were created by President John F. Kennedy. He had a powerful idea about how to build connections around the world. He believed that one of the best ways to promote world peace and friendship was to send Americans to volunteer in other countries. These volunteers wouldn't just be visitors; they would become part of a community, working side-by-side with people on projects that mattered to them. The countries we work with are our partners, and they are the ones who invite us and request our assistance. Our purpose has always been to serve others and build bridges of understanding between people, one friendship at a time.

Our work is carried out by thousands of dedicated volunteers. These volunteers are American citizens from all walks of life and of all ages, united by a desire to serve. To guide their work, we have three main goals that have been with us since the beginning. Our first goal is to help communities by providing them with trained volunteers. These volunteers share their skills in areas where they are needed most, working on projects that the community itself has identified as important. Our second goal is to help people in other countries get to know Americans and learn about our culture. By living and working together, our volunteers can share what life is like in the United States, breaking down stereotypes and building genuine connections. Our third goal works in the other direction: we want to help Americans learn about the cultures of other people around the world. When our volunteers return home, they bring with them incredible stories and a deeper understanding of the world, which they share with their own communities.

Becoming a part of a new community is a big step, so we make sure our volunteers are prepared. Before they even begin their work, they go through a period of training. During this time, they work hard to learn the local language so they can communicate with their new neighbors. They also study the local customs and traditions to show respect and build trust. This preparation is essential for their service, which lasts for two years. Living in the same villages and towns as the people they work with is a core part of the experience. It allows them to form strong friendships and truly understand what the community needs and hopes for. This deep connection helps them be more effective, whether they are helping teachers in a school, working with farmers to improve their harvests, or supporting local health projects. Since we were founded, our volunteers have answered the call to serve in over 140 countries, showing how far a simple idea of friendship can reach.

Today, we are still active, and our mission is as important as ever. We continue to send volunteers to countries all over the world that invite us to collaborate with them. While our main goals of promoting peace and friendship have never changed, the world has. Because of this, the kinds of projects our volunteers work on have evolved to meet new challenges and opportunities. In the past, our work might have focused mostly on farming or education. Now, a volunteer might help a community set up its first computer lab, assist local artists in starting a small business, or work on projects that protect the environment, like planting trees or finding new ways to conserve water. By adapting to the needs of our host communities, we continue our mission of service, helping to build a more peaceful and connected world for everyone.