Sidebar #61 - 65th Anniversary of Peace Corps

This week marks the 65th Anniversary of the Peace Corps. The agency asked that volunteers participate in celebrating the occasion, so I figured writing a short sidebar would be a nice way to commemorate the milestone.

Peace Corps was founded by JFK on March 1, 1961. To this day, Peace Corps remains a big part of his political legacy, an equally, Peace Corps is frequently associated with JFK. Being connected to one of the US’ most iconic presidents continues to give Peace Corps tremendous legitimacy and name recognition in the 60+ countries where volunteers serve around the world. 

Although the image of the traditional Peace Corps service may have changed a bit in the 65 years since its founding, the mission is largely the same. The US sends college-educated volunteers around the world to assist in the development of targeted sectors. In a political landscape marked by rapid change in foreign policy and international development (particularly USAID’s elimination in 2025), it’s remarkable that Peace Corps has endured for over 65 years and shows no signs of slowing down. It’s an honor to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer. I hope the agency thrives for another 65 years and counting.




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