What Is the Peace Corps?
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960, when then Senator John F. Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries. From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship.
Since that time, more than 195,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information technology and environmental preservation.
Today's Peace Corps is more vital than ever, working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development, and committing more than 1,000 new Volunteers as a part of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves, their children, and their communities.
There's quite a bit to learn about the Peace Corpsexplore the following sections to get to know its mission, history, and current endeavors in depth:
- Mission
- Learn about the Peace Corps' three goals.
- Fast Facts
- Statistics, facts, figures and other Peace Corps information.
- History
- In-depth information about the countries in which Volunteers serve.
- Management
- Learn more about the individuals and institutions supporting Volunteers around the world.
- Notable Former Volunteers
- Find out what Chris Matthews, Reed Hastings, and Paul Theroux have in common.
- Peace Corps Today
- As needs around the world change, so does the Peace Corps.
Last updated Sep 20 2008
Fast Facts on Paper
Download a Peace Corps Fact Sheet (PDF) for easy printing.
The file is in PDF format and requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Find Local Events
Peace Corps recruiters appear at information sessions, campus and community events, and career fairs. Pick your state and find a Peace Corps event near you.