Watson Coleman: “this week is National Peace Corps Week. It is with great pleasure that I send my congratulations to the Peace Corps…”

“this week is National Peace Corps Week. It is with great pleasure that I send my congratulations to the Peace Corps volunteers serving throughout the world as we celebrate the Peace Corps' 43 years of service. Forty-three years ago, President John F. Kennedy mobilized a generation to work in emerging nations around the world in education, community development, agriculture, health care, and public works. Since 1961, over 170,000 Americans have volunteered their expertise, time, and energy to foster development and progress in 136 countries. There is no greater symbol of America's generosity than American volunteers living and working in partnership with the people of developing nations to encourage education and opportunity. Currently, over 7,500 volunteers are serving in 71 countries around the world--the highest number of volunteers in the field in 28 years-- and applications have risen by 10 percent. Last year, Peace Corps entered or re-entered Albania, Azerbaijan, Chad, and Fiji, and many other countries have expressed interest in establishing a partnership with Peace Corps. I strongly support Peace Corps entry into Mexico for the first time. It is my deepest hope that we continue to recognize and support the Peace Corps' important work. By honoring the Peace Corps, we reaffirm our Nation's commitment to strengthen freedom and create opportunities around the world.”