Peace Corps

Since its establishment in 1961, the Peace Corps has been guided by a mission of world peace and friendship. The agency exemplifies the best of our nation’s spirit by sending Americans to serve around the world, advancing development and building cross-cultural understanding. Today, the Peace Corps continues to build strong relationships between our country and the people of our partner nations while making a difference in overseas communities, in the lives of our Volunteers, and back home in the United States. More than 235,000 Volunteers have served in 141 countries since 1961, changing lives—including their own.

The Peace Corps advances its mission through the work of its Volunteers. Rather than providing monetary assistance to countries, the agency sends Volunteers to share their skills and experience while living and working alongside local individuals and communities. This day-to-day interaction gives Volunteers a unique perspective and the opportunity to partner with local communities to address their development challenges and to strengthen mutual understanding.

Peace Corps Volunteers are the face of our nation in communities around the globe, building positive perceptions of the United States and sharing American values with their communities. After Volunteers complete their service, they return to the United States with new skills, deep knowledge of other cultures, and long-lasting relationships. Returned Peace Corps Volunteers continue their service by promoting awareness of other cultures and global issues with friends, family, and the American public; maintaining relationships with colleagues and friends from the countries where they served; and sustaining their commitment to volunteerism and public service.