FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, March 1, 2010

Peace Corps Celebrates Peace Corps Week March 1-7

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 1, 2010 The Peace Corps community, including returned, current and prospective Peace Corps volunteers as well as staff members the world over, will celebrate Peace Corps Week from March 1- 7. This year\'s celebration marks the 49th anniversary of the Peace Corps, founded on March 1, 1961, when President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order establishing the agency.

"Although many things have changed in the world since President Kennedy created the Peace Corps 49 years ago, our mission of promoting world peace and friendship has not," said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams. "The Peace Corps stands ready to support the next generation of dedicated volunteers who are committed to serving their country in the cause of peace and believe in the importance of grassroots community development."

"I know firsthand that Peace Corps service is a life defining leadership experience. I encourage all members of the Peace Corps family to take part in Peace Corps Week activities. Returned Peace Corps volunteers are leaders in classrooms, hospitals, embassies, nonprofits and newsrooms and contribute to the legacy of service that President Kennedy boldly envisioned."

Returned Peace Corps volunteers are encouraged to fulfill Peace Corps\' Third Goal during Peace Corps Week by participating in activities that help Americans gain a better understanding of other people and cultures. Currently serving Peace Corps volunteers can fulfill the Third Goal by sharing their experiences back home by phone, email, video, blogs, photos and letters.

During Peace Corps Week, the agency\'s nine regional recruiting offices will host over 140 recruiting and celebratory events across the country. Search for a Peace Corps week event in your region or state by visiting the Peace Corps Events Page.

As Peace Corps approaches its 50th anniversary, its service legacy continues to promote peace and friendship around the world with 7,671 volunteers serving in 76 host countries. Historically, nearly 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 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.

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