Public Service Announcement Recognized by National Academy of Arts and Sciences as One of the Best in the Country
Washington, D.C., September 11, 2000 - The Peace Corps\' public service announcement (PSA) titled, "How Far Are You Willing To Go To Make A Difference" was recognized by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as one of the best public service announcements in the country in 1999. The Peace Corps\' PSA was one of four finalists chosen from hundreds of entries across the country and was honored at Annual Emmy Award Gala in New York City.
Peace Corps Director Mark Schneider said, "We are honored that the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences recognized the Peace Corps\' public service announcement, and are most pleased that they are seen as valuable tools to inform the public about the wonderful service volunteers are performing around the world."
The Peace Corps has a long, rich history of producing compelling public service announcements to recruit volunteers. In the past, celebrities such as Bob Hope and Harry Belafonte and basketball legend David Thompson encouraged people to spend two years helping those in need in developing countries throughout the world.
This achievement comes as the Peace Corps begins preparations to celebrate its 40th anniversary, marked by the historic speech given by President John F. Kennedy on the steps of the University of Michigan on October 14, 1960. At present, the Peace Corps has more than 7,000 volunteers serving in 76 countries working in education, the environment, health and nutrition, business and community development. Since 1961, more than 161,000 Americans have joined the Peace Corps and have served in 134 countries worldwide.