Peace Corps honors the service of Hispanic volunteers

Washington, D.C., Sept. 15, 2011 -The Peace Corps is proud to join Americans across the country in commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15).

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the service of Hispanic American Peace Corps volunteers and returned volunteers, said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams, (Dominican Republic, 1967-1970). Today more than 500 Hispanic Americans are serving as Peace Corps volunteers around the world. They work with communities to provide sustainable solutions and reflect the extraordinary diversity of America.

In addition to local events in Atlanta, Boston and New York, the Peace Corps will host an online panel, Impacting the Latino Community: At Home and Abroad, on Sept. 28, in conjunction with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, the Hispanic College Fund, and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.

About the Peace Corps: President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Throughout 2011, Peace Corps is commemorating 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world. 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 76 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. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.