FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, February 18, 2010

Peace Corps Honors Returned Peace Corps Volunteer with Presidents Volunteer Service Award

Washington, D.C., November 18, 2010—Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams presented the Presidents Volunteer Service Award to returned Peace Corps volunteer Myron Fountain at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill last night.

After meeting with faculty and staff on campus, Director Williams recognized Fountain during an address to over 150 students at UNC-Chapel Hills FedEx Global Education Center. Director Williams discussed the life-defining opportunities Peace Corps provides and the many tangible benefits Peace Corps volunteers receive upon returning home.

The Presidents Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals for current volunteer activities and lifetime volunteer service. The Presidents Council on Service and Civic Participation created the award to honor and recognize Americans who inspire others to engage in volunteer service. Peace Corps has partnered with the Presidents Council to recognize the great service of Peace Corps Volunteers both at home and abroad.

Fountain was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malaysia from 1978 to 1980, serving as an agricultural advisor to youth. When Fountain returned from service, he dedicated himself to Peace Corps third goal by bringing the Peace Corps experience back to the United States. Among other accomplishments, Myron currently serves as president of the North Carolina Peace Corps Association and works to support both returned and currently serving Peace Corps Volunteers from North Carolina.

UNC-Chapel Hill is the sixth-ranked Peace Corps Volunteer-producing university. Currently, 78 UNC-Chapel Hill alumni serve as Peace Corps Volunteers and 1,092 UNC-Chapel Hill alumni have served as Volunteers since Peace Corps was created in 1961.

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. To learn more about the Peace Corps, please visit our website: www.peacecorps.gov.

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