FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, June 18, 2012

U.S. Mayors Pass Resolution to Support Peace Corps

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 18, 2012 – The U.S. Conference of Mayors passed a resolution to support the Peace Corps during the annual meeting on June 16 in Orlando, Fla. The resolution, originally sponsored by Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, was reviewed by the International Affairs Committee, led by Oakland Mayor Jean Quan, and the Jobs, Education and the Workforce Committee, led by St. Louis Mayor Francis G. Slay, before going to final vote.

“Peace Corps has a key role in building international understanding and friendship, as well as, providing on-the-ground practical service to many around the world,” said Mayor Piercy, who served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ethiopia from 1964-1966. “Less recognized perhaps is what this experience contributes to communities here at home. I know that I have taken that experience and knowledge to inform and guide me as teacher, state legislator and now Mayor of Eugene Oregon. I have no doubt that Peace Corps volunteers represent a vast and talented resource for this country as we struggle out of a difficult recession and prepare ourselves for a better future in a complex and ever smaller world.”

The new resolution calls on mayors from across the U.S. to recognize the vital work being done by Peace Corps volunteers worldwide and to encourage local citizens to consider Peace Corps service. Through the resolution, returned Peace Corps volunteers will be urged to support city initiatives in their hometowns and local educators and community groups are prompted to utilize free resources available through Peace Corps programs.

“We are excited about the opportunity to work with mayors from around the nation,” said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams. “With their support, we can help send America’s best and brightest overseas to serve with Peace Corps, having those talented men and women return as global citizens. Returned Peace Corps Volunteers are a great addition to mayoral initiatives surrounding education, health awareness, youth development and the environment. We applaud the efforts of the US Conference of Mayors in voting to support the Peace Corps and we look forward to working together.”

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 agency’s 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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