John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961 to promote peace and friendship around the world by sending American volunteers to help people in developing nations meet their needs through training. The goals of the Peace Corps were to provide trained men and women to help people in interested countries, promote better understanding between Americans and the people they serve, and increase understanding between Americans and other cultures. The document also provides background information on Guatemala, where the Peace Corps has operated to help the people and ancient Maya culture there.
1. John F. Kennedy’ s Legacy
President J . ennedy speaking to students at the
ohn F K
University of Michigan on October 14, 1960
2.
3. The Mission and Goals
of the Peace Corps
To help the people of interested countries in
meeting their need for trained men and women
To help promote a better understanding
of Americans on the part of the peoples served
To help promote a better understanding
of other peoples on the part of Americans
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960, when then-Senator John F. Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries. From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship.
Throughout its history, the Peace Corps has adapted and responded to the issues of the times. In an ever-changing world, Peace Corps Volunteers meet new challenges with innovation, creativity, determination, and compassion. These are the qualities that have allowed the Peace Corps to achieve its mission since 1961, and they remain the keys to achieving that mission today.
