Member-only story

The Inside Story of the Peace Corps: A Fifty-Year Legacy of Service and Impact

Chad Price

·18.7k Followers· Follow

Published in When The World Calls: The Inside Story Of The Peace COrps And Its First Fifty Years

5 min read

456 View Claps

23 Respond

Save

Listen

"Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."

- John F. Kennedy, 1961

In the depths of the Cold War, President John F. Kennedy issued a clarion call to young Americans. He urged them to "ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." His words sparked a movement that would have a profound impact on both the United States and the world: the Peace Corps.

When the World Calls: The Inside Story of the Peace COrps and Its First Fifty Years

by Stanley Meisler

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	830 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	289 pages

A Tapestry of Service

Fifty years later, the Peace Corps stands as a shining beacon of American idealism and service. It has sent more than 225,000 volunteers to 141 countries, where they have worked alongside local communities to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. From education and healthcare to agriculture and environmental protection, Peace Corps volunteers have made a lasting difference in the lives of millions.

The tapestry of Peace Corps service is woven with countless stories of individuals who have dedicated themselves to making a difference. There is the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, a physician who joined the Peace Corps in 1983 and went on to co-found Partners In Health, a non-profit organization that provides healthcare to the poor in Haiti and other developing countries. There is also the story of Helen Keller, the deaf and blind author, who served as a Peace Corps goodwill ambassador from 1962 to 1968. Her tireless advocacy for the disabled helped to break down barriers and create a more inclusive world.

Impact Beyond Borders

The impact of the Peace Corps extends far beyond the lives of individual volunteers and the communities they serve. The program has also played a vital role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and building bridges between the United States and other countries. Peace Corps volunteers have served as ambassadors of American values, sharing their knowledge, skills, and perspectives with people from all walks of life.

In addition to its direct service work, the Peace Corps has also had a ripple effect on American society. The program has inspired countless young people to pursue careers in international development, diplomacy, and other fields that promote peace and understanding. It has also helped to shape American attitudes towards the developing world, fostering a greater sense of global interconnectedness and responsibility.

Challenges and Controversies

While the Peace Corps has been widely praised for its positive impact, it has also faced its share of challenges and controversies. The program has been criticized for being too focused on short-term service and for not always providing adequate support to its volunteers. There have also been concerns about the safety of volunteers in some countries.

Despite these challenges, the Peace Corps remains a vital force for good in the world. The program continues to attract thousands of young Americans each year who are eager to serve and make a difference. And as the Peace Corps enters its sixth decade, it is well-positioned to continue its legacy of service and impact for many years to come.

A Call to Action

The 50th anniversary of the Peace Corps is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of its volunteers and the transformative power of service. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges that remain and to recommit ourselves to the cause of peace and global development.

If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the world, consider joining the Peace Corps. Volunteers come from all walks of life and bring a wide range of skills and experiences to the program. Whether you are a recent college graduate, a seasoned professional, or a retiree, there is a place for you in the Peace Corps.

By serving in the Peace Corps, you will not only be helping others, but you will also be enriching your own life. You will gain invaluable skills, experience, and a deeper understanding of the world. And you will join a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference.

As President Kennedy said, "The future of the world lies in the hands of those who dare to care." Join the Peace Corps today and help to create a more just, equitable, and peaceful world.

Additional Resources

* [Peace Corps website](https://www.peacecorps.gov/) * [Peace Corps 50th Anniversary](https://www.peacecorps.gov/50years/) * [Peace Corps Stories](https://www.peacecorps.gov/stories/) * [Peace Corps Blog](https://blog.peacecorps.gov/)

When the World Calls: The Inside Story of the Peace COrps and Its First Fifty Years

by Stanley Meisler

4.2 out of 5