Peace Corps: Creating A World Of Understanding And Peace

by Jessica Bernhard

President John Kennedy wasn't prepared to present his idea of the Peace Corps on the 14th of October, 1960 to the 10,000 students who were waiting for him at the University of Michigan. Yet, this unplanned speech, presenting what seemed like a small idea, challenging students to serve their country and spread peace throughout the world, became one of the most remembered cornerstones of the Kennedy legacy, as students embraced the idea of helping others, both in our country, and around the world. His challenge became the inspiration to a generation that quickly learned that just by helping people from a foreign country to build a bridge, or helping a native community to find a new supply of food, or helping a group of women find a safe place to have their babies, could reap such a special feeling that made their hearts warm and their experiences rewarding for a lifetime.

Betsi Shays, current Director of the World Wise Schools program at the Peace Corps, was one of those young adults who was inspired by the words of President Kennedy. "What maintains the spirit of all this...is the idea behind the Peace Corps is so powerful and inspiring. The Peace Corps appeals to those who live by the principles of kindness, generosity and goodwill," Shays remarked during an interview in her Washington, D.C. office. It is obvious that Shays still feels this inspiration, as she speaks with glowing cheeks and wide eyes, "The best way to keep peace in the world is to get out there and do something about it!"

Shays, who as a young adult spent two years in Fiji working in remote villages, told TeenSpeak that in no way does the United States try to push its volunteers into situations where they have not been invited. The Peace Corps encourages relationships that maintain three major goals: "helping the people of interested countries meet their needs; enabling trained men and women to promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served; and to help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans." The attraction of these goals commands an overflow of volunteers that are constantly applying to the Peace Corps. In fact, the passion and the love of assisting and respecting others stays alive, as every two years volunteers are renewed, and every five years, those working in the headquarters for the Peace Corps are replaced. "The influx of returned volunteers and new staff ensures that fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Peace Corps are always available," said Peace Corps Director Mark Schneider.

Peace Corps volunteer shares his cultural experiences.