10 Reasons to Think About #Serving with the Peace Corps
The Peace Corps is a U.S. government agency that sends Americans abroad, to serve as Peace Corps Volunteers, living and working with communities overseas. Peace Corps Volunteers work with local leaders to develop sustainable solutions for challenges that face their communities.
Created by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the Peace Corps promotes world peace and friendship by pursuing three goals: to help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women, to help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served, and to help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
To celebrate the Peace Corps mission around the world, we’re breaking down a list of what Peace Corps Volunteers do and how you can get involved!
1. Peace Corps volunteers serve in more than 60 countries.
Volunteers serve in 62 countries across the following regions: Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, North Africa and the Middle East, the Pacific Islands, and South America.
2. Peace Corps volunteers work in Agriculture, Education, Health, Community Economic Development, Environment, or Youth in Development.
· Agriculture Volunteers work with local farmers and families to increase food security and production, adapt to climate change, and promote environmental conservation.
· Education is the Peace Corps’ largest program area. Education volunteers work in schools as teachers, technology resources, and trainers.
· Health volunteers work within their communities to promote and educate about topics like hygiene, water sanitation, and nutrition.
· Community Economic Development volunteers encourage economic opportunities by teaching and supporting entrepreneurs, among other things.
· Environment volunteers help communities protect the environment and strengthen their understanding of environmental issues.
· Lastly, Youth in Development volunteers work with young people to promote engagement and active citizenship.
3. Volunteers are matched with openings that meet their skills and interests.
Volunteers can indicate their preferences for geographic region, sector, and date of availability, and recruiters will work to match applicants’ skills and preferences to an opening. Volunteers serve for two years following three months of in-country training.
4. Who can join the Peace Corps?
U.S. citizens who are 18 or older are eligible to join the more than 230,000 other Americans who have served. There is no upper age limit. Peace Corps volunteers are curious about the world and committed to helping others.
5. The Peace Corps is a life-defining experience.
Ninety percent of Peace Corps volunteers would recommend service to others based on their own positive experiences. The Peace Corps is a wonderful service opportunity for anyone looking to make a difference in the world. Volunteers gain unique cross-cultural perspectives and leadership, language, teaching, and other skills that provide a competitive edge in today’s global economy. Check out Leila’s Peace Corps story!
6. What are the benefits of serving in Peace Corps?
While serving others, Peace Corps Volunteers help themselves, gaining benefits that last through service and well beyond. Volunteers receive:
· A housing and living allowance to live similarly to the people in their community.
· Medical and dental care during service.
· Transportation to and from country of service.
· Technical training at the start of service, including in-depth intercultural and language instruction.
· New skills related to work, language, culture, and safety highly in demand in today’s global economy.
· Upon completion of two years of service, $10,000 (pre-tax) to help with the transition to life back home.
7. Do I need to speak a foreign language?
Not necessarily! Language requirements vary by opportunity.
8. Who is the typical Peace Corps volunteer?
There isn’t one! The Peace Corps is a diverse organization with a place for everyone who wants to serve.
9. I’m an experienced professional. Is there a program for me?
Yes! The Peace Corps Response program is designed for you! These service assignments are shorter in duration and allow professionals to share their expertise with the communities they serve.
10. How can I get started?
Check out the open volunteer positions to get started. You can also meet with a recruiter to determine the best options for you.
Interested in learning more about the Peace Corps? You can visit their website for more information. If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, we want to hear from you! Share your story with us at www.inspire2serve.gov/publiccomments.
