Peace Corps recruiting older volunteers for their commitment, experience

The following excerpt comes from the Associated Press and was originally published on June 6, 2012.

“When Tamara England-Zelenski applied to the Peace Corps two years ago, at age 57, she saw the assignment as a way to give back, travel and experience a different way of life.

She thought her experiences in life and as a book editor might be an asset to the organization, which sends volunteers around the globe to promote world peace and friendship.

‘I had considered Peace Corps when I was in my early 20s, but I felt that I had no specific skills to offer, other than speaking French. I figured they wanted specialists and I was a generalist, so I never applied,’ said England-Zelenski, of Madison, Wis. ‘And I am still a generalist, but one with a lifetime of experience in different areas and businesses.’

As it turns out, England-Zelenski was just what the Peace Corps was looking for. The organization has begun recruiting older volunteers, recognizing their experience, maturity and commitment to volunteering. Also their sheer numbers: Baby Boomers make up about 25 percent of the U.S. population, and volunteer more than any other age group.”

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