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Peace Corps Releases New TV Public Service Announcement

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 6, 2011 The Peace Corps has released a new television public service announcement (PSA) designed to increase awareness of service opportunities overseas. The 2011 TV spot coincides with the agencys 50th anniversary and portrays, with humor and poignancy, the life of a recently returned Peace Corps volunteer (RPCV) who spent two years living and working with a community overseas.

Click here to view the television PSA.

There are two versions of the PSA. The original is a 60-second spot, while there is also an edited 30-second version. Both feature a string of short conversations that unfold throughout a volunteers daily interactions as he shares his experience with friends, family, and others. These vignettes represent what many RPCVs feel as they return from their service overseas and have life-defining experiences, accomplishments, and stories to share.

Select script from PSA:

Volunteer: my morning commute was by canoe

Volunteer: after two months, I was ready to quit, but after two years, I didnt want to leave

Volunteer: I didnt know I had it in me

Actress Susan Sarandon lends her voice at the conclusion of the spot to reflect Peace Corps appreciation for the service of volunteers worldwide.

Turn two years of service into a lifetime of experience. To all the Peace Corps volunteers past, present, and future, thank you for your service to your country and the world, says Sarandon.

The commercial was created by the advertising agency BBDO Atlanta, produced by Brad Powell, and directed by Alison Maclean. This spot will air through the generosity of station and public affairs managers across the country.

Peace Corps recruits year-round and seeks Americans of all ages and backgrounds for volunteer service. Volunteers work across six program areas: agriculture, business, education, environment, health, and youth and community development.

About the Peace Corps: President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Peace Corps will commemorate 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world through 2011. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 77 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.