Director Ron Tschetter Announces Interactive Site
to Celebrate the History of the Agency

Washington, D.C. - Peace Corps Director Ron Tschetter today announced the launch of the Peace Corps 50th Anniversary website, dedicated to commemorating the agency's 50 years of service: www.peacecorps.gov/50. The Peace Corps will officially celebrate its 50th anniversary on March 1, 2011.

The 50th Anniversary website highlights historical information about the Peace Corps' long record of service. It also provides ways in which participants can join in on the worldwide celebrations leading up to and throughout 2011. The site includes a listing of 50th Anniversary events planned in Washington, D.C. and elsewhere around the U.S. The website also contains a list of in-country activities that are part of the commemorative 50th Anniversary Partnership Program.

Those interested in helping the Peace Corps remember and honor the past 50 years will have the opportunity to donate to the 50th Anniversary Fund in this section of the 50th Anniversary Website. As the website is further developed, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers will also have a venue to submit stories and photos from their service, or donate artifacts to the 50th Anniversary Archive through the website.

Said Peace Corps Director Ron Tschetter, "The Peace Corps is very excited about celebrating its fiftieth anniversary, and sharing Peace Corps' rich legacy around the world through 2011. The 50th Anniversary website will be a great way to keep everyone informed as the plans for celebrations and events unfold, both in the U.S. as well as in our Peace Corps countries worldwide."

The main Peace Corps website draws over 8 million visitors a year. In addition to the main site, the Peace Corps maintains a website for teachers through its World Wise Schools program, a website for teens, and a website for 50+ Volunteers.

The Peace Corps is celebrating a 47-year legacy of service at home and abroad, and a 37-year high for Volunteers in the field. Since 1961, more than 190,000 Volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries where Volunteers have served. Peace Corps Volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

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