Political Quotes

“I support S. 2667, The Peace Corps Charter for the 21st Century Act. I commend Senator Dodd for developing this legislation and for working closely with the administration to advance it through the Foreign Relations Committee, where last week it was reported unanimously. Support for the Peace Corps is not, and should not be, a partisan issue. Senator Dodd's quiet work in moving this legislation forward is a testament to that principle. From promoting environmental conservation, to teaching primary school classes; from working to increase food production to training health care workers, Peace Corps volunteers do a lot of good throughout the world. Since the organization was founded 40 years ago, over 165,000 volunteers have served in 135 countries. If you multiply that number by the number of people reached by each volunteer, the phenomenal impact of the Peace Corps becomes apparent. Our Peace Corps volunteers represent, in many ways, U.S. diplomacy at its best--reaching remote communities as well as urban neighborhoods, and helping people improve their lives in immeasurable ways. The Peace Corps is stronger and more popular than ever. Since January, the organization estimates that there has been a 300 percent increase in inquiries from potential volunteers. We must ensure that the Peace Corps has the necessary resources to capture and utilize this unprecedented surge in interest.”