United States Peace Corps marks 60th anniverssary

March this year, marked the 60th anniversary of the United States Peace Corps and celebrate the volunteers and staff who have served in communities around the world, representing American values and ideals.

Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the Peace Corps showcases America at its best and the importance of America’s continued global presence and leadership.

Peace Corps volunteers show what it means to lead by the power of the US example.

Peace Corps volunteers immerse themselves in the local culture, learn the languages of the communities they serve, build long-lasting friendships, and represent the American people to the world.

Upon returning home, they share their stories, experiences, and skills with other Americans, bringing valuable insights that help them lead in their families, communities, and workplaces.

While COVID-19 has brought unprecedented challenges, it is believed that all Peace Corps volunteers are eager to return to service as soon as it is safe to do so.

And when they do, they will again take their places as some of America’s most important ambassadors of American values and bring what they have learned back home to the United States.

At the State Department, great appreciation is shown to have many Peace Corps alumni serving in Foreign Service and Civil Service roles around the world.

Over 240,000 Americans have served in more than 140 nations. October 14, 1960 in a 2 a.m. campaign speech, then-Senator John F. Kennedy challenged University of Michigan students to contribute two years of their lives to help people in countries of the developing world.