On the recordMarch 5, 2010
in the early 1960s, President John F. Kennedy inspired Americans to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries throughout the world. From that inspiration grew an agency devoted to world peace and friendship. The Peace Corps has become an enduring symbol of our Nation's commitment to encourage progress, create opportunity, and expand development at the grass-roots level in the developing world. In gratitude of the nearly 200,000 volunteers who have made significant contributions to improve the lives of people in over 139 countries during the last 49 years, I would like the Senate to recognize the Peace Corps and its celebration of National Peace Corps Week. National Peace Corps Week is being held from March 1 through March 7, 2010. During this time, celebratory and educational events will occur across the country to pay tribute to the Peace Corps' positive influence on communities here at home and abroad.
