FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Friday, April 23, 2010

Peace Corps Partners with The Corps Network

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 23, 2010 The Peace Corps and The Corps Network have partnered to help recruit and train the next generation of Peace Corps volunteers and prepare young Americans for environmental careers.

The Corps Network and the Peace Corps will encourage Corps Network members and alumni with experience in youth development, conservation, and the environment to apply to become Peace Corps volunteers. Volunteers who have completed their Peace Corps service will, in turn, be encouraged to serve American communities through The Corps Networks service and conservation programs. Both organizations will exchange training and technical assistance materials and link The Corps Network members in 44 states and the District of Columbia with Peace Corps volunteers for reciprocal mentoring and support.

The environment-related experience that The Corps Network members bring to the Peace Corps will build upon our efforts to develop sustainable solutions to environmental challenges worldwide, said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams.

The Corps Network represents service and conservation programs that annually enroll more than 29,000 young men and women. The Corps Network inheritor of President Franklin Delano Roosevelts Civilian Conservation Corps legacy engages young men and women in visible and valued public work. Members revitalize communities, prepare young people for responsible productive lives, build civic spirit through service, and preserve and restore the environment. To learn more about The Corps Network, visit www.corpsnetwork.org.

"We are tremendously excited to partner with the Peace Corps, said The Corps Network President and CEO Sally Prouty. Together we can help tap into Americas greatest renewable natural resource the idealism and energy of Americas young people to help the Peace Corps address pressing environmental challenges abroad.

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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