Peace Corps is an independent U.S. government agency that provides Volunteers for countries requesting assistance around the world. On March 1, 1961, President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps. Through 2011, the Peace Corps will commemorate 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world.
Its mission has three goals:
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 Americans.
Over 200,000 Americans have served in 139 host countries to date. Volunteers work with local governments, communities, schools, and entrepreneurs to address changing and complex needs in education, health and HIV/AIDS, business and information technology, environment, agriculture, and youth development. 37% of Volunteers serve in the Education Sector.
Peace Corps Lingo
PCT - Peace Corps Trainee - what we are until swear-in in October
PCV - Peace Corps Volunteer
APCD - Assistant Peace Corps Director
PCMO - Peace Corps Medical Officer
