FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Statement from Director Aaron S. Williams on African American History Month

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 1, 2012

In honor of African American History Month, we celebrate the contributions that African Americans have made to the United States and to the Peace Corps. Since the Peace Corps was established in 1961, African Americans have worked at the grassroots level with community members on projects in health, business, youth development, education, agriculture and the environment. Today, the Peace Corps family would like to express our gratitude for the continued dedication of African Americans to the Peace Corps mission of promoting world peace and friendship.

About the Peace Corps: Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps by executive order on March 1, 1961, more than 200,000 Americans have served in 139 host countries. Today, 9,095 volunteers are working with local communities in 75 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 and the agencys mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.

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