US Peace Corps Director Mark Gearan discussed the importance of encouraging youths to pursue careers in international relations, particularly in the United States Peace Corps. The Peace Corps, which was started by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, has developed into a strong and influential worldwide organization over the last 38 years. It is evolving constantly to reflect the rich diversity of Americans in the United States. The Peace Corps has volunteers from every state who represent different facets of American culture in race, gender, and political affiliation.

The Peace Corps currently enjoys a resurgent interest from Americans who are seeking outlets for public service. In addition to the 6,700 current Peace Corps volunteers in 80 countries, there exists a "treasure trove of returned Peace Corps volunteers now numbering 152,000 Americans." Recently, a survey was completed by overseas Peace Corps volunteers to determine the level of satisfaction derived from their Peace Corps experience. An overwhelming 9 out of 10 people commented that they would both volunteer again and recommend it to others due to the tremendous amount of satisfaction they receive from the work they do. Peace Corps volunteers develop valuable overseas and cross-cultural experience, which is a benefit to the volunteers as well as the populations they serve. The motto of the Peace Corps encapsulates the feeling of its volunteers: "The Peace Corps is the toughest job you will ever love." According to Mr. Gearan, a 27-month Peace Corps assignment is one of the most difficult jobs, but at the end of the day, 9 out of 10 volunteers believe that they have made a difference in both their lives and the lives of others.

Mr. Gearan recently initiated a new program called the crisis corps, an organization of former volunteers who return to their country or region of service for short-term assignments after a crisis to help improve the situation in the area. This is an extremely beneficial, crucial, and successful operation, particularly in the areas of the Caribbean and Central America. The return volunteers possess cultural and linguistic skills that enable them to expedite the process of redevelopment in the region after a crisis. The Peace Corps is continually looking for ways to expand their services and to preserve the integrity of the program.

Mr. Gearan further noted that many officers within the international affairs agencies, such as the State Department and USAID, began their careers as Peace Corps volunteers. Peace Corps volunteers possess a keen understanding and acute sensitivity on cross-cultural issues, language skills, and a developed sense of international awareness. Mr. Gearan credits their success in the international affairs arena to their background in public service and international affairs gained from their service with the Peace Corps.

In conclusion, Mr. Gearan discussed the main objective of the Peace Corps, which is to make a difference on the local or grass roots level. Peace Corps volunteers make a tremendous impact on those in the areas they serve. Mr. Gearan believes the success of the Peace Corps is derived from the integrity and profound character of the Peace Corps volunteers, which helped to break cultural barriers and fostered a strong foundation for peace and friendship.

Visit the US Peace Corps website at www.peacecorps.gov/home/html