FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Thursday, May 27, 2010

Peace Corps Receives the Association of Government Accountants Prestigious CEAR Award

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 27, 2010 Peace Corps received the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) Certificate of Excellence in Accountability Reporting (CEAR) Award for fiscal year 2009.

"I am proud of Peace Corps commitment to excellence and transparency in financial management," said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams. "The hard work and dedication of Peace Corps financial staff not only wins awards, but also ensures accountability and efficient use of appropriated funds."

Peace Corps Chief of Staff Stacy Rhodes and acting Chief Financial Officer Thomas Bellamy accepted the award on behalf of the agency at a ceremony at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. last night. The award is given to federal government agencies whose Performance and Accountability and Annual Financial Reports achieve the highest standards of clarity in communicating financial information and demonstrating accountability. This is the third year in a row that Peace Corps has received the AGA award.

Since 1950, the AGA has served as an educational organization dedicated to the enhancement of public financial management. AGA\'s CEAR Program was established in conjunction with the federal Chief Financial Officers Council and the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to improve financial and program accountability by streamlining reporting and improving the effectiveness of Performance and Accountability and Annual Financial Reports.

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 77 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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