Accomplishments 2001–2004

Peace Corps Accomplishments 2001–2004

Contents Theme 1 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively 1

Theme 2 Reacquainting the American People with the Mission of the Peace Corps 15

Theme 3 Increasing the Diversity of Volunteers, Expanding Recruitment Efforts 29

Theme 4 Strengthening Agency Management and Financial Performance 37

Theme 5 Making Safety and Security the Overarching Priority 47 “The Peace Corps Volunteers carry the American idea with them. They don’t carry our culture; they carry universal values and principles that are so incredibly important for all of mankind … when President Kennedy— Sargent Shriver’s brother-in-law—signed an executive order more than 40 years ago providing for the establishing of the Peace Corps, he spoke about a nation of men and women anxious to sacriﬁ ce their energies and time and toil to the cause of world peace and human progress. That mission hasn’t changed. As a matter of fact, today the mission is needed more than ever… I believe Americans are still willing to sacriﬁ ce for causes greater than themselves. And the Peace Corps offers such a fantastic opportunity to do so.”

President George W. Bush’s address at Peace Corps Director Gaddi Vasquez’s swearing-in, February 15, 2002 Dear Friend of the Peace Corps:

Today, there are more than 7,700 Peace Corps Volunteers serving around the world, and I am pleased to report that they are doing outstanding work in realizing the goals of the Peace Corps. They are making important contributions to grass-roots projects in agriculture, education, the environment, health and HIV/AIDS education and prevention, small business development, and youth development. At the same time, our Volunteers are strengthening cross-cultural ties with the people of 72 countries. As of September 30, 2005, we expect that there will be more Volunteers serving overseas than at any time in 30 years.

To have successfully reached this point in the history of the Peace Corps has required a tremendous effort on the part of many people. Over the course of the past four years, the Peace Corps has been the beneﬁ ciary of broad, sustained bipartisan support from Congress and extraordinary support from President Bush. In his State of the Union address in 2002, President Bush called for an expanded Peace Corps and upon all Americans to commit at least two years of service to their nation. His remarks proved to be catalyst for the increased interest in the Peace Corps by Americans and the steady growth in the number of Volunteers serving overseas.

It is my responsibility, and that of the dedicated staff at the Peace Corps, to focus our efforts on supporting the Volunteers, renewing the promise of the Peace Corps, and meeting the challenges facing the agency in the 21st century. Beginning in 2001, we committed ourselves to growing and strengthening the agency in a wide variety of ways and would like to take this opportunity to familiarize you with our efforts.

Using a thematic approach, this book is comprised of ﬁ ve areas of emphasis, and they are: expanding the number of Peace Corps Volunteers and supporting them effectively; reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps; increasing the diversity of Volunteers through expanded recruitment efforts; modernizing the agency’s accounting and ﬁ nancial management systems; and lastly and most importantly, making the volunteer experience as productive, meaningful, and safe as possible.

In the years ahead, the Peace Corps is committed to building upon its accomplishments of the past four years and thereby providing more Americans with the opportunity to contribute their time, energy, and skills on behalf of the less fortunate. We greatly appreciate all the support that the Peace Corps has received and ask that you provide support to the Volunteers of tomorrow.

I am deeply honored to serve as the Director of the Peace Corps and to witness, ﬁ rsthand, the spirit of service that lives in our Volunteers. All Americans can take great pride in what Peace Corps Volunteers do to help lift the human condition in some of the world’s poorest countries, and in what they do to improve our own understanding of other people and cultures around the world.

Sincerely,

Gaddi H. Vasquez Director

April 2005 a legacy of accomplishments

January 2002 July 2002

Born from the challenge by President Bush for all Approximately 23 percent of current Peace Corps Americans to volunteer, the agency began efforts to Volunteers serve in 14 countries with signiﬁ cant prepare to increase the number of Volunteers worldwide. Muslim populations.

ince its inception in 1961, the Peace Corps has sent over 178,000 Volunteers to serve in 138 countries around the globe—from Albania to Zambia—promoting the Peace SCorps’ mission of world peace and friendship. Volunteers share their time and talents by serving as teachers, business advisors, information technology consultants, and health and HIV/AIDS educators carrying out the agency’s three goals:

1 Helping the people of interested countries meet their need for trained men and women.

2 Helping to promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.

3 Helping to promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans. highlights from four years of successful innovation

November 2002 May 2003

In response to UNICEF and the government of Malawi, President Bush met with Volunteers in Botswana, the Crisis Corps sent its ﬁ rst group of Volunteers to commending them for their support and commitment. Malawi for a cholera prevention initiative.

During the past four years, the Peace Corps has reached historic highs on many fronts. The following are a few of the many accomplishments that have launched the Peace Corps into the 21st century.

• The Peace Corps had 7,733 Volunteers serving in the ﬁ eld at the end of ﬁ scal year 2004—the highest number in 29 years.

• The Peace Corps has entered or reentered 21 countries since 2001, including nine with predominantly Muslim populations.

• The Peace Corps launched a successful new recruiting campaign entitled “Life is calling. How far will you go?” that is attracting the next generation of Volunteers. a legacy of accomplishments

June 2003 September 2003

Director Vasquez signed a Partnership Accord to The “Life is calling. How far will you go?” recruitment open a program in Mexico for the ﬁ rst time. campaign is launched to attract more diverse applicants, to better reﬂ ect the face of America.

• The Peace Corps has worked for and realized an increase in ethnic minorities and older applicants enabling Volunteers to reﬂ ect the broad diversity of America.

• At $317 million in ﬁ scal year 2005, the Peace Corps budget reached a record high funding level.

• With their unique knowledge of local languages and customs around the world, and also under the auspices of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, Volunteers are playing a vital role in HIV/AIDS prevention and education activities.

• The Peace Corps has continued to make the safety and security of Volunteers its highest priority, signiﬁ cantly increasing its infrastructure, including safety and security-related personnel in the ﬁ eld and at headquarters. highlights from four years of successful innovation

January 2004 January 2005

A Health Volunteer in Tonga works with a community Director Gaddi H. Vasquez and Regional Director Jay educator to develop HIV/AIDS awareness among youth. Katzen assess rebuilding efforts in Southeast Asia.

The three goals of the Peace Corps remain relevant, vital, and strong. The agency is proud of its accomplishments and legacy, and looks forward to continuing to carry out the important work of transferring skills and building cross-cultural relationships around the world.

The Peace Corps has a clear mission that has served the agency well for the past 43 years. The president’s emphasis on volunteer service and his proposal to expand the number of Peace Corps Volunteers serving overseas have created renewed interest in the Peace Corps worldwide. As Americans answer the call to extend the compassion of our country to every part of the world, the Peace Corps remains a vital part of the equation. Whether teaching children, educating people about HIV/AIDS, or connecting communities to the Internet, Peace Corps Volunteers continue to promote a spirit of service throughout the world—one person and one community at a time. a legacy of accomplishments

Distinguished Speakers to the Agency

June 19, 2001 October 8, 2002 U.S. Representative Mike Honda Rosario Marin RPCV El Salvador, 1965-67 Treasurer of the United States 15th District of California September 26, 2002 October 15, 2001 Hipólito Mejía Domínguez Mel Martinez President of the Dominican Republic U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development March 20, 2003 Amadou Toumani Touré January 29, 2002 President of Mali Sargent Shriver First Director of the Peace Corps June 24, 2003 U.S. Representative Anne M. Northup February 8, 2002 3rd District of Kentucky Ambassador Sichan Siv U.S. Representative to the United Nations July 15, 2003 Economic and Social Council U.S. Senator Norm Coleman Minnesota March 26, 2002 Lorne Craner July 16, 2003 Assistant Secre tary for Dr. Julie L. Gerberding Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Director of the Centers for U.S. Department of State Disease Control and Prevention

May 8, 2002 September 14, 2004 John Bridgeland Joseph Acaba Director of USA FreedomCorps RPCV Dominican Republic, 1994-96 The White House NASA Mission Specialist and Astronaut Candidate September 14, 2002 Alejandro Toledo President of Peru highlights from four years of successful innovation

Agency Awards and Recognitions

Orden del Quetzal from Guatemalan National Capitol Area Combined President Óscar Berger Perdomo Federal Campaign Committee’s award for Best Special Event in 2003 National Order of Merit from the President of Ecuador Awarded the Summit Award for exceeding growth in participation in 2003 Alternative Dispute Resolution program named by the Equal Won the President’s Award (highest award) Employment Opportunity Commission for outstanding performance in 2003 as a model for U.S. government Three outstanding service awards Peace Corps Partnership programs honored from the Hispanic Association as best practices by the U.S. Department of Federal Employees of State Interagency Working Group The Peace Corps Ofﬁ ce of Management/ Peace Corps website nominated Administrative Services awarded the for a Webby award in 2001 U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) 2004-05 Federal Mail New recruitment campaign materials Center Excellence Award received seven awards from the National Association for The Federal Mail Manager of the Year Government Communicators Award was awarded to Alvin Laich, acting director for Administrative Services Selected among Washingtonian and the chief of Peace Corps’ Reference, magazine’s “50 Great Places to Work” Research, and Distribution Division. First time in the history of the Federal Campaign recruitment video Mail Best Practice Awards program a awarded CINE Golden Eagle single agency has won both awards. theme Expanding the Number of Volunteers, 1 Supporting Them Effectively

Expand into new countries, optimize the number of Volunteers and staff currently working in each country, ensure an available and productive job for every Volunteer, expand the Crisis Corps, and encourage new ideas and innovative partnerships. 2 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

President George W. Bush has called on all Americans to commit 2 years or 4,000 hours of service to the nation and to every part of the world.

ith President George W. Bush’s call to expand the Peace Corps, the agency has pursued the strongest possible growth within Wthe constraints of its resources, while focusing on safety and security and preserving the quality of the Volunteer experience. The agency has worked to achieve this growth through focused recruitment, training, support, and management improvements. The themes in this book show priorities for increasing the number of Volunteers and supporting them effectively as they serve.

During the State of the Union Americans have answered the call Address on January 29, 2002, to service, and the Peace Corps in- President George W. Bush called on creased the number of Volunteers all Americans to commit at least two serving to 7,733 at the close of ﬁ scal years or 4,000 hours of service to year 2004, the highest number in 29 one’s neighbors and the nation. The years. Host countries continue to re- President declared, “America needs quest Volunteers, and the Peace Corps citizens to extend the compassion of entered or reentered 21 countries our country to every part of the world. during the past four years, nine of So, we will renew the promise of the which are countries with predom- Peace Corps … and ask it to join a inantly Muslim populations. new effort to encourage development and education and opportunity.”

THE DETAILS

Answering the Call At the close of ﬁ scal year 2004, the Peace Corps achieved the highest number of Volunteers in 29 years. FY 2001—6,643 FY 2002—6,636 FY 2003—7,533 FY 2004—7,733 “We have been waiting for the Peace Corps with open arms to return to Chad. Our students as well as our country will greatly beneﬁ t from their presence.” Abdoulaye Beri Counselor at the Embassy of Chad 4 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

New Country Entries

Americans want to serve, tions in St. Kitts and Nevis, gramming, site selection, and host countries are eager making it the sixth island administration, and host coun- for Peace Corps Volunteers. nation within the agency’s try support. This assessment Between 2001 and 2004, the Eastern Caribbean region. is critical to open or reopen Peace Corps entered or reen- a program, and a template tered 21 countries. The Peace In a historic agreement under created in 2002 ensures as- Corps has been welcomed by the Partnership for Prosperity sessment consistency. Safety some countries for the very Initiative of President Bush conditions in some countries fi rst time, invited back by and Mexican President Vicente and agency budget constraints countries after a hiatus, and Fox, the Peace Corps also have prevented reentry into resumed operations in oth- entered Mexico in 2004. certain countries where assess- ers following the suspension The program is providing a ments took place. Since 2001, of a program due to political unique opportunity for the in addition to those countries unrest, natural disasters, or Peace Corps to recruit highly the Peace Corps has entered other unforeseen challenges. specialized, technically trained or reentered, the agency has and experienced Volunteers sent assessment teams to For instance, in 2002, the to work side-by-side with Afghanistan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Peace Corps reentered Peru Mexican counterparts. Ethiopia, the Marshall Islands, at the invitation of its new Arriving in October 2004, Sierra Leone, and Tajikistan. president, Alejandro Toledo, Volunteers worked in the after a 27-year absence. The areas of environment/wa- The Peace Corps has sought agency also reestablished ter engineering, business opportunities to increase the an independently adminis- development, and technical placement of Volunteers in tered program in Costa Rica. research and development. Muslim cultures to foster more In June 2002, Peace Corps peaceful relationships with Volunteers were among the The demand for Peace Corps citizens of Muslim nations. fi rst Americans to arrive in the Volunteers is high—with more Subsequently, three out of four newly independent nation of than 20 countries request- new country entries in 2003— East Timor. The Peace Corps ing Peace Corps programs. Albania, Azerbaijan, and also reentered Botswana and Prior to entering or reenter- Chad—were in countries with Swaziland after several years ing a country, the agency predominantly Muslim popu- of absence and began with conducts an assessment trip lations (defi ned as 40 percent new programs focused entirely to evaluate the feasibility or more). This brings the agen- on the HIV/AIDS pandemic. of a Peace Corps program cy’s total program involvement The agency established other in the interested country. from 14 nations in 2002 to new programs in 2003, reen- 18 in 2004, with almost 20 tered Albania, Chad, and Fiji, Typically, at the invitation of percent of Volunteers serving and launched a new program the host country, the assess- in nations with predomi- in Azerbaijan. In 2004, the ment team evaluates safety nantly Muslim populations. Peace Corps reopened opera- and security conditions, pro-

“[Volunteers] get close to the people they serve... And the legacy they leave behind lives on after they leave.” Theo-Ben Gurirab Namibian Prime Minister Between 2001 and 2004, the Peace Corps entered or reentered the following 21 countries

Albania* Costa Rica Kyrgyz Republic* Peru Azerbaijan* East Timor Macedonia, Republic of St. Kitts and Nevis Bangladesh* Fiji Madagascar Swaziland Botswana Haiti Mexico Turkmenistan* Chad* Jordan* Morocco* Uzbekistan* China

* Countries with predominantly Muslim populations 6 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

Volunteer Support Health Care Safety and Security

Volunteers live and work in It is essential that Volunteers Safety and security improve- the most remote countries and have a constant, effective sup- ments are the most important regions of the world, and fol- port system for their health changes to Volunteer support. low a community integration care needs. Several improve- This remains an overarching model. Volunteers must adapt ments and changes were made priority for the agency, critical to a vast array of different over the past four years. In to each Volunteer’s ability to languages and cultures, and the 2004 Volunteer Survey, succeed in service. The Peace the Peace Corps equips them 85 percent of Volunteers in- Corps has established pro- for the transition with effec- dicated they were adequately cedures and policies to help tive training and support. For to exceptionally satisﬁ ed with Volunteers reduce their risks example, in 2004, the Peace the health care they received and enhance their safety and Corps taught more than 200 in their country of service. security. At the same time, the different languages in pre- While the language used in Volunteer’s own conduct is the service training. the 2004 Survey was slightly single most important factor revised from language used in ensuring his or her safety The Peace Corps has reviewed in previous years, this repre- and well-being. and expanded support for Vol- sented an 8.3 percent increase unteers, re spond ing to their in satisfaction over the 2002 changing needs and circum- Volunteer Survey. stances in countries where they serve, as well as providing them with better materials, technology, and communication.

Health Care Enhancements Include: Converting all trainee health records to encrypted CD-ROMs that are now sent to post two weeks ahead of trainees. Peace Corps medical ofﬁ cers (PCMOs) now prepare in advance for any trainee special needs. Additionally, PCMOs can instantly search medical records, speeding required follow-up during an emergency; Completely overhauling and updating the Volunteer health kit, making it easier to use; Initiating continued education training in Volunteer resiliency for PCMOs including a new resource guide; Using enhanced data analysis capability to track medical and prescription drug use trends for medical support changes; Working through a task force, developed policies, training modules, and support strategies for improving Volunteer resiliency; and Developing and testing an integrated training module for working with Volunteers with high-risk behaviors, such as overuse of alcohol. Programming and Training

Volunteer success is tied to Project status reviews (PSRs) This process identiﬁ es best strong training and program- and training status reviews practices in programming ming. Volunteers serve at the (TSRs) have been expanded. and training and shares them request of host government A new template for each post’s among posts and with partner ministries. These ministries preparation of projects and organizations. The strength- work with Peace Corps staff training program plans to ened process has streamlined in-country to establish speciﬁ c the agency enables uniform and coordinated the timing of program elements that meet measurement of the quality of reports, and enabled the agen- host government requirements new and continuing projects cy to use data to formulate and are supported by host (community involvement in budgets, meet Government government counterparts and developing the project, coun- Performance and Results Act supervisors, as well as Peace terpart training, etc.). These (GPRA) goals, and improve its Corps staff. The Peace Corps projects are reviewed by rel- strategic planning. has added new structures and evant agency staff through systems to strengthen its pro- roundtable discussions. gramming and training sup- Recommendations are then port, making use of new tools sent back to the post, based and technology. on questions the posts raised.

Feedback on Volunteer Support

Volunteer feedback is the In 2003, staff developed 13 In keeping with the President’s best avenue for improving quality statements applied e-government initiative, the programming and training to applicants, Volunteers, re- Peace Corps will launch a new and Volunteer support. The turned Peace Corps Volunteers survey in 2005 to gather data Peace Corps administered two (RPCVs), and staff touching at the close of the Volunteer’s Volunteer surveys, in 2002 all areas of agency work. These service. The survey will tap and 2004, with more than 80 statements included whether into the wealth of knowledge of questions related to Volunteer information that the public the experienced Volunteer, pro- perceptions of training, service, receives informs their deci- viding the agency with data for and safety and security. Two- sions about service, whether planning. This complements thirds of Volunteers responded recruitment and placement the ongoing Volunteer Survey each time and the results supplies posts with trainees and Early Termination Survey. were distributed throughout who possess the right skills headquarters and the ﬁ eld. and experience, and whether Volunteers are satisﬁ ed with their assignments. Fifty-six survey questions assess quality, with reports to be issued semi-annually. 8 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

Major Programs

Agriculture. 551 Volunteers Education. 2,499 Volunteers Health and HIV/AIDS. are working in 15 countries, are working in 53 countries, 1,406 Volunteers are working in assisting 158,769 individu- assisting 472,945 individu- 46 countries, assisting 1,024,320 als, training 3,556 service als, training 36,183 service individuals, training 24,734 providers, and helping 1,023 providers, and helping 7,703 service providers, and helping organizations and 2,214 com- organizations and 11,905 5,093 organizations and 10,651 munities around the world. communities worldwide. communities worldwide.

Business Development. 1,198 Environment. 984 Volunteers Youth. 338 Volunteers are Volunteers are working in 36 are working in 34 countries, working in 14 countries, assist- countries, assisting 217,022 assisting 899,322 individu- ing 101,542 individuals, training individuals, training 12,364 als, training 13,729 service 5,281 service providers, and service providers, and helping providers, and helping 3,529 helping 1,124 organizations 5,177 organizations and 4,245 organizations and 3,852 com- and 1,804 communities communities worldwide. munities around the world. around the world.

“How can we not listen more to expatriates who are willing to share our everyday concerns for two years? They eat what you eat, they drink what you drink, they teach you to love your own country by showing you ways to love it!” Madagascar Ministry of Education Ofﬁ cial

The agency has improved Between 2001 and 2004, the The Peace Corps developed worldwide the management Peace Corps expanded pro- formal partnerships with the and delivery of its technical as- gramming in youth develop- Centers for Disease Control and sistance and training materials. ment, technology including Prevention, Habitat for Hu- New systems include an effec- the Digital Freedom Initiative manity, and the United Nation’s tive online library accessible partnership, and disaster pre- World Food Organization to from the Peace Corps website. paredness and mitigation. For combine efforts and work col- This library offers PDF fi les of the latter, the Peace Corps de- laboratively in the countries the most commonly used tech- signed and delivered an exten- where the Peace Corps has nical/training/cross-cultural sive in-service training program a relevant program. In ad- materials, including Culture for Volunteers in the Caribbean, dition, the agency developed Matters and The Life Skills Central America, and the informal partnerships with Manual, and can be accessed in Pacifi c Islands to combat hur- AARP, the U.S. Department print-ready format in the fi eld ricane damage, an earthquake of Health and Human Ser- and by visitors to the website. in El Salvador, and a series of vices’ Administration on Ag- devastating hurricanes in 2004. ing, and National Geographic Society to further awareness and recruitment efforts. Improvements to Programming and Training

• Converted the programming • Further reﬁ ned annual sum- • Added questions that meet and training information to maries of project and train- information requests from a database enabling searches ing activities. Annual reports different sources. For exam- and reports on hundreds of now fully capture Volunteers’ ple, there are now questions program and training topics. work by sector and region about the types and numbers and deliver detailed examples of youth programs, or the • Instituted a three-color of work within each country. number of Volunteers work- ranking that enables posts The summary now includes: ing with nongovernmental to assess their own progress numbers of people impacted organizations (NGOs). toward meeting project cri- by the work, numbers of proj- teria. Posts can also compare ects, and Volunteers serving • Institutionalized working changes and improvements in the projects. groups among the program with other posts. technical support center, the regions, and the Volunteer recruitment units to inte- grate improvements based on annual review results. 10 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

“Malians and Peace Corps Volunteers together are breaking the silence, upholding human dignity, and showing compassion for all those with HIV/AIDS.” A madou Touma ni Touré Malian President

Expanded Program Area: HIV/AIDS

The Peace Corps HIV/AIDS Namibia, South Africa, tribute other technical and program has increased dramati- Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia organizational skills that meet cally over the past four years. are working in partnership with critical service delivery needs, While the Peace Corps was the U.S. Department of State, which international workers already involved in HIV/AIDS USAID, the Centers for Disease with health technical back- prevention work, the agency Control and Prevention, the grounds are less equipped to do. has partnered with others to Health Resources and Services participate in the President’s Administration, and their hun- With the size of the pandemic, Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief dreds of international and local Volunteers, particularly in sub- (Emergency Plan), a fi ve-year, partners. This presents an op- Saharan Africa, are constantly $15 billion initiative. Of the portunity for the Peace Corps confronted with the loss of 15 countries targeted by this to be part of an integrated U.S. host family members, close col- initiative, the Peace Corps has government and international leagues, and community friends. programs in 10 countries. In fi s- plan for combating the disease In 2004, the Peace Corps added cal year 2004, more than 3,100 on a global scale. newly designed material on Volunteers worked directly or grieving and grief counseling to indirectly on HIV/AIDS preven- All Peace Corps Volunteers in support Volunteers. tion and education activities, sub-Saharan Africa work di- a 35 percent increase over fi s- rectly or indirectly in HIV/AIDS To address the devastating cal year 2003. Volunteers are as do nearly one-half of the effects of HIV/AIDS on all making great strides in edu- over 7,700 Volunteers world- aspects of community life, cating vulnerable populations wide. Their work in HIV/AIDS all Peace Corps Volunteers throughout the world about is often linked to other sector in the Africa region— the pandemic, and the number primary assignments, such as of individuals assisted by their gardening in a family com- regardless of their primary activities nearly doubled from pound when family members assignment—are trained 440,000 in fi scal year 2003 to are too weak to work in the in HIV/AIDS prevention more than 800,000 in fi scal fi elds, training community vol- and education. Volunteers year 2004. unteers as teachers in primary are uniquely suited to work schools when trained teaching in the fi eld of HIV/AIDS Under the Emergency Plan, the staff become too sick to teach, because they are trained in Peace Corps received $1.1 mil- or working with community lion in 2004 for programs in groups training volunteers to the local language, live and six focus countries. The agency give home-based care to those work in the communities expects that amount to sig- ill with HIV/AIDS. where they serve, and know nifi cantly increase in 2005 and how to share information in 2006. Volunteers in the 10 focus Most Volunteers with HIV/ a culturally sensitive way. countries of Botswana, Guyana, AIDS-related projects are not Haiti, Kenya, Mozambique, health professionals, but con- The Details Peace Corps Volunteers focus on HIV/AIDS prevention and education activities under the auspices of President Bush’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, a fi ve-year, multi-billion dollar effort. For FY04, the Peace Corps was awarded funding of $1.1 million for projects in six countries, and more than 3,100 Volunteers worked directly or indirectly on HIV/AIDS prevention and education activities throughout the world. 12 Expanding the Number of Volunteers, Supporting Them Effectively

Crisis Corps

Crisis Corps, a program of short-term assignments for returned The Crisis Corps mobilizes for- Peace Corps Volunteers, began in 1996 as a response to natural mer Peace Corps Volunteers to disasters in the Caribbean. It offers an opportunity for returned serve in three regions: Africa; Volunteers to give back again, particularly in emergency situa- Europe, Mediterranean, and tions. Assignments are made directly with NGOs or government Asia; and Inter-America and ministries and each is individually developed. This program also the Paciﬁ c. helps keep the Peace Corps connected to the extensive returned Volunteer community that is periodically tapped to support re- 30 cruitment activities. EMA During the past four years, Crisis Corps has: • Sent Volunteers into 11 new countries; 235 328 • Expanded “immediate response” to also address ongoing Africa IAP natural crises such as droughts by working closely with Peace Corps posts to expand Crisis Corps’ potential; • Developed programs in HIV/AIDS such as NGO strengthening, curriculum development, agriculture, training, and monitoring and evaluation; Since the inception of the • Fielded Volunteers under the the President’s program, nearly 600 Crisis Corps Volunteers have served Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief; throughout the world. • Led the Peace Corps’ response to the Indian Ocean earthquake and resulting tsunami; and • Offered opportunities for more than 200 RPCVs to serve over the last four years.

“Never doubt that a small group of individuals can change the world ... indeed it is the only thing that does.” Margaret Mead Peace Corps Partnership Program

Many Volunteers have or design projects that are enhanced by The Ofﬁ ce of Private Sector small project assistance dollars, usually between $200 and Initiatives has dramatically in- $5,000. Projects have included equipping a laboratory, purchas- creased private sector support for ing equipment for an after-school basketball team, establishing a projects that beneﬁ t local commu- small school library, and purchasing minimal equipment for an nities working with Peace Corps HIV/AIDS youth theater. Private sector contributions to support Volunteers around the world. the projects of Volunteers are used within appropriate parameters

such as sustainability and a matching community commitment. $1,550

Between 2001 and 2004, Peace Corps’ Ofﬁ ce of Private Sector Initiatives (OPSI) has: • Doubled the number of contributors by expanding outreach to local civic groups, RPCV groups, schools, foundations, and $619 businesses; $329 • Funded more than 350 projects annually; • Built a new Web-based system in which projects are posted on FY 2002 FY 2003 FY 2004 the Web and potential donors can identify their interests and Total dollar amounts include contribute; and in-kind donations and funds • Accelerated the funding process (time required to get funding raised by OPSI. ($ in 100,000) to Volunteers in the ﬁ eld) by an average of two months.

“Most everyone who [has] ever come here from somewhere else has found some way to make our lives harder. You are the only person who lends us a helping hand.” Community Leader in El Salvador

theme Reacquainting the American People 2 with the Mission of the Peace Corps

Reacquaint the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps, and in doing so, strengthen and expand the scope of the Peace Corps’ domestic programs. 16 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps

Around the world, Peace Corps Volunteers continue to bring a spirit of Hope and Optimism to the struggle for progress and human dignity.

he Peace Corps’ continued global and domestic impact is a product of the more than 178,000 Volunteers who have served during the Tpast 43 years. Volunteers share stories of their experiences and these experiences often shape their own lives and those they encounter. The Peace Corps’ mission is unique among agencies and organizations in that it combines practical assistance with cultural interaction. Volunteers provide assistance, but they also share with communities worldwide, and bring their experiences home. The Peace Corps has expanded opportunities for RPCVs to share these experiences, building new generations that take these lessons forward. President Amadou Touré of Mali spoke at the Peace Corps in July 2003, expressing how Peace Corps Volunteers were responsible for eradicating river blindness from his region of Mali and that he worked with them and witnessed their success. During his presentation, a former Volunteer in the audience stood and shared her experience, speaking in President Touré’s own tribal language. It brought tears to his eyes.

THE DETAILS

The Peace Corps Mission

The Peace Corps mission is to promote world peace and friendship. Throughout its history, the three goals of the Peace Corps have remained the same, namely: 1) To help the people of interested countries meet their need for trained men and women; 2) To help to promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served; and 3) To help to promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans. “The [Peace Corps] Volunteers are not U.S. government employees. They do not represent Washington, or a particular administration. They are Volunteers who have asked for the chance to devoteIt somebrought years tears of theirto his lives eyes. overseas in service to others. They represent the American people, and they come from all parts of our country.” Roger A. Meece U.S. Ambassador to Malawi 18 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps Reaching out

s? one direction p to give some Would you sto , If you were walking that way would you guide them? your way? What if it was out of One mile. Two miles. miles, Two thousand Coast, the Skeleton inland from Namibia. directly the foothills of schoolhouse in to a one-room schoolhouse? teacher in that What if you were the Has anyone ever called you crazy? that far to teach someone? Would you travel yourself? To learn something What if you moved to another country,

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What if you went to improve their lives,

and in the process, improved yours.

Would that be crazy?

Peace Corps.

Life is calling.

How far will you go?

800.424.8580 | peacecorps.gov

Ads from the “Life is Calling” campaign

4.8580 Visit peacecorps.gov Call 800.42

National Outreach

eaching out to a domestic audience is vital to reintroducing the Peace Corps to Americans. Many of the agency’s communications Rare focused on reminding Americans that the work of the Volunteers continues today. The key thrust of the agency’s national outreach has been its new marketing and recruitment campaign, “Life is calling. How far will you go?” Developed by the Ofﬁ ce of Communications, this successful campaign employed an enticing call-to-action message across all media materials. Additionally, the campaign includes effective new tools and materials designed to aid recruitment.

The Peace Corps successfully implemented a In their ﬁ rst year, the PSAs have: new marketing and recruitment campaign • Earned more than 91,000 placements or airings, with the theme, “Life is calling. How far will you • Gained a media value of more than $9.2 million, and go?” Related public service announcements for • Made more than 1.5 billion audience impressions. television, radio, and print in both English and Spanish were unveiled in November 2003. “I found that many of the values instilled in me as a Latina served me well in South Africa, where there is a similar unwavering respect for elders and people are also regarded as more important than material things.” Nina Hernandez Volunteer/South Africa

A group of senior leaders at the of stories about the work of offi cials. The messages are post- agency served as the Diversity African-American Peace Corps ed to the website and updated Task Force to identify and Volunteers worldwide. The new hourly if needed. overcome barriers and obstacles Peace Corps program in Mexico that may discourage a wide was highlighted in the Hispanic The Offi ce of Communications range of ethnic groups from press, and senior Volunteers has many formal and informal applying for service in the Peace have been featured several alliances with organizations for Corps. Informed by research and times in AARP publications. awareness-building, including focus groups held in 2002, the AARP, the U.S. Department of Diversity Task Force arranged a The headquarters press and Health and Human Services’ series of leadership roundtable communications offi ces work Administration on Aging, and discussions with African collaboratively with public the National Geographic Soci- American, Hispanic, Asian/ affairs specialists situated in ety’s Educational Foundation. Pacifi c Islander, and American the 11 regional recruitment Indian leaders to discuss their offi ces. Biweekly conference The Offi ce of Press Relations ideas on methods to employ calls ensure that common in the agency’s outreach. themes and messages are used reaches out nationally and to support outreach and to internationally to raise the The Offi ce of Press Relations place Peace Corps stories and visibility and understanding prepares press releases for the public service announcements in of the Peace Corps’ work website and news organiza- media throughout the country. throughout the world. tions locally and nationally. The offi ce expanded the list of Talking points are now core to news organizations that receive all Peace Corps-related news sit- Peace Corps press releases, uations and emergencies to get emphasizing groups represent- facts and messages quickly to ing American diversity. Dur- Volunteer families and friends, ing Black History Month, for posts worldwide, communities, example, staff prepared a series returned Volunteers, and elected 20 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps

$317

$308 $295

$275

2002 2003 2004 2005

The Peace Corps budget has steadily grown. ($ in millions)

Interacting with Congress

Effectively communicating Congressional Relations has of CODELs and Congressional with Congress is vital to achiev- enabled Members of Congress to staff trips with which Peace ing the agency’s awareness- visit with Volunteers in the ﬁ eld Corps staff and Volunteers were building strategy. Six Members during Congressional delega- able to interact increased from of Congress and dozens of tion (CODEL) trips throughout 11 in 2003 to nearly 30 in 2004. Congressional staff are RPCVs, the world. These visits inspire Both Congress and the Bush and the agency has worked with both Members of Congress and Administration have strongly them and key committees of Volunteers, and give the legis- supported the work of the jurisdiction to promote aware- lators and their staff an on-the- Peace Corps and given the ness of the Peace Corps’ cur- ground perspective of the work agency the highest budget rent activities. The Ofﬁ ce of of the Volunteers. The number mark in its 43-year history.

“I believe the Peace Corps is American diplomacy at its best. In a world where America is too often misunderstood, the Peace Corps represents an opportunity to show the compassionate nature of this country and its citizens. Now more than ever we need the Peace Corps to continue fostering international goodwill at the grass-roots level.” Senator Norm Coleman (R-MN) RPCV Members of the 108th Congress

Senator Christopher Dodd (D-CT) Dominican Republic 1966-68

U.S. Representative Sam Farr (D-CA) Colombia 1964-66

U.S. Representative Mike Honda (D-CA) El Salvador 1965-67

U.S. Representative Tom Petri (R-WI) Somalia 1966-67

U.S. Representative Chris Shays (R-CT) Fiji 1968-70

U.S. Representative Jim Walsh (R-NY) Nepal 1970-72 22 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps

Reading, seeing, and hearing RPCV stories is the top reason given by new applicants for wanting to join the Peace Corps. 24 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps Third Goal Bringing It Home Communicating with Returned Peace Corps Volunteers: Reaching Out and Bringing the World Home

The Peace Corps has a large and third year, links recruitment • The development of two visible alumni group—more than and third-goal projects with cooperative agreements, ad- 178,000 returned Volunteers. the NPCA, its afﬁ liates and the opted between the Peace Corps Many of these RPCVs are mem- Peace Corps. and the NPCA (2004 and bers of the National Peace Corps NPCA task force activities 2005). Funds were used to: Association (NPCA) and/or state have included: Establish and maintain an and local groups, and “friends of • Support for national online RPCV teacher match [Peace Corps country]” groups. program (Peace Match), Telling the stories from former Peace Corps Week activities Volunteers is an important part consistent with the Conduct three job fairs in of the third Peace Corps goal and Peace Corps Act; Florida, Illinois, and Texas, creates images new Volunteers • Development of annual and carry into their own service. primary and secondary Plan for four open houses Reading, seeing, and hearing classroom materials across the country to RPCV stories is the top reason and activities; highlight Peace Corps given by new applicants for want- • Facilitation of participation in domestic programs in 2005. ing to join the Peace Corps. NPCA annual conferences; These collaborative efforts are During the past four years, the • Increased participation reacquainting the American Peace Corps has focused signiﬁ - in each group’s activities, people with the mission of the cant attention on creating oppor- presentations, and workshops; Peace Corps and promoting a tunities for RPCVs to tell their better understanding of other stories. A Peace Corps-NPCA • Development of methods for peoples on the part of Americans. task force was created to promote stronger links with local and recruitment and third-goal activi- “friends of …” groups; and ties. This task force, now in its

The Details In collaboration with the National Peace Corps Association, the Peace Corps created an electronic speaker’s bureau matching RPCVs with teachers who want to participate in the Peace Match program. Coverdell World Wise Schools Program

In 1989, then Peace Corps Highlights of the • Monthly letters from Director Paul D. Coverdell ini- program include: “CyberVolunteers,” who are tiated the World Wise Schools • Four books of Volunteer current Volunteers selected program at the Peace Corps. stories and associated to write stories on speciﬁ c In 2001, Congress enacted lessons that meet topics, which are posted on legislation naming both the national standards. the Peace Corps website headquarters building and with corresponding class- the program in his honor. The • A concise manual of room activities. program’s major objective is exercises to help students understand their own • Handbook of guidelines for to help acquaint American RPCVs using the materials. classrooms with other coun- and other cultures. tries through contact with • Regular correspondence • Teacher training in how to Peace Corps Volunteers. With with currently serving use the written materials. a goal to reach a classroom Volunteers (nearly 4,000 • Web-based content in every school district in participate at any given and lesson plans. the country, the program time primarily through has expanded each year letters and e-mails). through new curriculum • Visits from RPCVs materials and technology. who give presentations in classrooms.

Sharing the Volunteer Experience

Whether recounted by RPCVs • Insights From the Field: The National Geographic in the classroom, shared in Understanding Geography, Society’s Education Foundation conversations with Volunteers Culture, and Service (2001) contributed to the publication in the ﬁ eld, or presented in cur- • Voices From the Field: of 70,000 copies of Building riculum materials, Volunteers’ Reading and Writing Bridges, a kick-off reception stories have a powerful impact About the World, Ourselves was held on Capitol Hill cel- on students’ and teachers’ per- and Others (2002) ebrating the partnership, and ceptions of cultures, cultural the foundation distributed cop- differences, and their own • Building Bridges: A ies to its national Geography images in a diverse community. Peace Corps Classroom Alliance Network. Many school Guide to Cross-Cultural districts have adopted Building The Peace Corps produced Understanding (2002) several culture-focused Bridges as a part of their ofﬁ - publications that feature Peace • Uncommon Journeys: cial curriculum. Corps stories. Designed for use Peace Corps Adventures in the classroom, these texts Across Cultures (2004) offer lessons on cross-cultural understanding and individual Peace Corps experiences.

The Details From 2000 to 2004, more than 7,000 new teachers were enrolled in the Correspondence Match program, reaching approximately 500,000 students across the country. 26 Reacquainting the American people with the mission of the Peace Corps Third Goal Graduate Programs

Reacquainting America with have used Volunteers’ ex- The MI program has: the Peace Corps mission is periences in these graduate • added 19 new partners also a strong part of university programs to enrich program since 2000, for a total graduate programs. Faculty curricula and encourage many of 50 universities, and and students in more than 115 more students, and sometimes programs in more than 80 faculty, to consider Peace Corps • enrolled 524 students in institutions of higher educa- and other international work. 2004, up from 400 in 2003. tion support the Peace Corps In the MI program, students Fellows/USA and Master’s combine work toward a International (MI) programs. master’s degree with two years During the past three years, as Volunteers before return- these programs have grown ing to complete their degree. with new core staff and additional funding. Universities

Peace Corps Week

The Peace Corps has celebra- Returned Volunteers now ted its founding annually on have additional time to visit March 1, the day President classrooms, make presentations John F. Kennedy signed an in communities, and use executive order establishing Peace Corps Week materials the Peace Corps. Beginning accessible via a special location in 2003, the agency expanded on the website. In support of

d s h i p Peace Corps Day to Peace Corps Peace Corps Week, links with f r i e n ce a n d Pea p e a c e ps o r ldl d peace and friendship Cor k t i n g w Week, allow ing more time for NPCA and more than 150 Wee PPromotingr o m o wor 2005 additional activities and cer- afﬁ liates have been expanded, emonies to take place through- encouraging local participation Peace out the U.S. throughout the country. Corps Week

Institutionalizing the Mission at Home

To acquaint America with 2003, the Peace Corps part- experiences. In 2004, the education internationally, the nered with the Department Peace Corps partnered with U.S. Departments of State of State and the Alliance for the Department of Education, and Education began a joint International and Cultural sharing speakers, workshops, International Education Week Exchanges to share through a photography exhibit, and program in 2000, held the workshops its international joined websites in celebration of third week in November. In Coverdell World Wise Schools International Education Week. Services for Returning Volunteers

The third goal is carried out through the work, experiences, and stories of returned Peace Corps Volunteers. The agency has a responsibility to help returned Volunteers readjust after returning from service. During the past four years, the Peace Corps’ expansion of both the Fellows/USA and Master’s International programs augments graduate school opportunities for Volunteers. In addition, the Peace Corps has provided services through the Returned Volunteer Services program. Recent enhancements have included:

• Expanding Hotline, a • Creating a new career fair • Doubling the size of semi-monthly newsletter model that can be used the career information with job and educational locally through regional consultant guide, from 800 opportunities throughout ofﬁ ces; adding a Spring contacts to nearly 1,600. the United States and career fair at headquarters an online version. for a total of three per year.

• Expanding the offer of • Beginning the quarterly services to recently returned RPCV Update newsletter Volunteers by setting up for 110,000 returned space and a computer in Volunteers, which each of the 11 regional publicizes the experiences recruitment ofﬁ ces for of colleagues, current Volunteers to use for job Volunteers, and the agency. searching and networking. theme Increasing the Diversity of Volunteers, 3 Expanding Recruitment Efforts

The agency has expanded its outreach to reﬂ ect America. More than ever, Volunteers in the Peace Corps are coming from diverse backgrounds and experiences, enabling them to successfully dispel stereotypes others may have of Americans. 30 Increasing the Diversity of Volunteers, Expanding Recruitment Efforts

At the end of ﬁ scal year 2004, the Peace Corps had 7,733 Volunteers in the ﬁ eld, the highest number in 29 years

istorically, the Peace Corps has focused its recruitment on college campuses and the agency continues to ﬁ nd tremendous interest Hamong undergraduates. However, to recruit the broadest cross- section of America, the agency has expanded its outreach to seniors, married couples, mid-career professionals, community college graduates, and other applicants to reﬂ ect America’s diversity. More than ever, Volunteers in the Peace Corps are coming from diverse backgrounds and experiences, enabling them to successfully dispel stereotypes others may have of Americans.

To fulﬁ ll this goal, the Peace Corps has and produced in 2003 with additional devised new means of outreach. The materials continually added. Vital to agency has also strengthened and sim- those materials was messaging that pliﬁ ed its Volunteer Delivery System, depicted the work of the Volunteers as reducing barriers for those who want modern, current and relevant to today’s to serve. To facilitate this process, the world—underscored in importance agency established task forces to ex- after September 11, 2001. The materi- plore barriers to service and strategies als developed for recruitment included to increase diversity. a new video, a suite of printed materials both targeted and for general use, New recruitment materials which echo various PowerPoint presentations, an the “Life is calling. How far will you image library, a DVD-ROM, and a go?” campaign theme were written reengineered and redesigned website.

THE DETAILS

The Peace Corps Vision A Peace Corps that promotes world peace and friendship by providing Americans of all backgrounds who wish to serve a quality volunteer experience in a safe and secure manner as they help communities meet their growing and evolving needs and return to share their unique experiences. “[Peace] arises only out of the mutual and equitable exchange of skills, of ideas, of cultural values. Peace Corps Volunteers—going where they are invited; bringing open minds, dedication, and enthusiasm; living and working side-by-side with their hosts; and returning with new perspectives to share with those at home—are among the best examples of how that peace will be achieved.” Jordan’s Queen Noor Al Hussein 32 Increasing the Diversity of Volunteers, Expanding Recruitment Efforts

Important in the development of the new recruit- words. The website now shares more about where ment materials was the desire to have appropri- Peace Corps Volunteers serve, speciﬁ cally what ate ethnic and age diversity. This meets the goal they do, and what their life is like—featuring to have readers and observers see themselves as ﬁ ve-minute interviews, photo galleries and other potential applicants for Peace Corps service. special features.

Using existing resources in a new way, video was Other key improvements to the recruitment streamed for the website so the public could view campaign happened online. With more and more life as a Volunteer using the Volunteers’ own Americans accessing the Internet, the Peace Corps enhanced and simpliﬁ ed the application process, can stay involved during Volunteer service—can converting the delivery of references online. be found online. Current Volunteers, families, Immediate access to where the applicant is in the friends, and Peace Corps advocates all have process of applying was also created through the ready access to the agency’s rich online resources. development of the Online Status Check process. Applicants are responding to these enhancements; from 2001 to 2004, the number of applications Peace Corps information—whether about received and processed online has risen from countries served, the types of programs available, 47 percent to 75 percent. safety and security procedures, or ways families 34 Increasing the Diversity of Volunteers, Expanding Recruitment Efforts

Regional Success Community Colleges Taking it Online

Successful outreach must in- The Peace Corps has established Historically, the Peace Corps clude a combination of effective a successful initiative with the application process was largely materials available to Peace American Association of Com- paper based and time consum- Corps regional recruitment of- munity Colleges (AACC) to ing. In response to escalating fi ces and friends of the Peace reach out to community col- Internet accessibility, the agency Corps, and an effective staff leges, generating interest on upgraded the application pro- and resources. Regional recruit- campuses that now represent cess and launched it online. ment offi ces are the front line close to half of the higher educa- Enhancements include: in marketing, so the agency has tion student body. Activities of • Online status check and provided them with: this initiative have included: access to follow-up; • Demographic analysis • Presenting a targeted rollout • Automatically generated software, which allows in Washington, D.C., and e-mails to questions posed recruiters to identify at fi ve community college by applicants; demographics of target systems in Spring 2003; • Online reference checks; audiences for outreach; • Identifying and orienting • New recruitment goal models more than 200 community • Online integrated Health for improved outreach; college points of contact; Status Review; • An upgraded inquiry system • Constructing a Web landing • Downloadable forms re- to better track applicants and page that highlights special quired to complete the identify leads; and recruiting materials and application; and • A new regional database activity ideas for community • Online training materials. system for tracking, college advocates organizing, focusing, (www.peacecorps.gov/poc); Plans to add country-specifi c printing, and distribution • Presenting speeches and resources for invitees, including that effectively supports the workshops at 12 national the Welcome Books, are application process. meetings and conferences; forthcoming. • Identifying programs for Volunteer Delivery which community college graduates are eligible; System • Creating a 30-page booklet The Volunteer Delivery System about the strengths of is the continuous cycle of Volun- community college graduates teer recruitment, screening, and that was sent to Peace Corps placement that allows the Peace posts; and Corps to deliver suitable, trained Volunteers to meet host country • Designing a brochure that needs. The Peace Corps has re- conveys the priorities, cently focused on improvements eligibilities, programs, and to the system. Internal commu- benefi ts of the initiative. nication has been streamlined and overall response times to applicants reduced. A fully user- centered Web presence with an online tracking system and application tools has also been implemented. Online Trends The Peace Corps has used the Web effectively to simplify the application process. The percentage of online applications has increased dramatically from 2001 to 2004. Percentage of applications submitted online:

47% 61% 70% 75%

2001 2002 2003 2004 theme Strengthening Agency Management 4 and Financial Performance

Strengthen agency management and ﬁ nancial performance, and in doing so, use world- class technology to provide high-quality training and programming. 38 Strengthening Agency Management and Financial Performance

The most signiﬁ cant management accomplishment has been the Modernization of the agency’s accounting and ﬁ nancial management systems.

chieving excellence in programming, training, and support for Volunteers requires a committed agency A staff and efﬁ cient, effective systems. During the past four years, the agency has strengthened staff training, launched an enterprise architecture project to map out processes and enable strategic change, and introduced new systems that utilize advances in technologies.

THE DETAILS Open Market The new fi nancial management system integrates and streamlines the fi nancial management and reporting process, improves the ability to audit the agency’s records, and reduces duplicative and error-prone data entry. “With the scarcity of teachers in our secondary schools, schools,especially especially in remote in rural remote areas, rural Volunteers areas, Volunteers are considered as diamonds.” are considered as diamonds.” Ministry of Education Offi cial Ministry of EducationAfrica Offi Regioncial Africa Region 40 Strengthening Agency Management and Financial Performance

Human Resource Management

Work at the Peace Corps is car- Working within federal pro- The most sweeping enhance- ried out by staff working under cedures and the unique term- ment has been implementing a unique term-limited hir- limited appointments, the the human capital manage- ing authority that has been in Peace Corps has improved its ment software application, place since 1964. All Peace human resource management which will automate the HRM Corps staff are limited to fi ve (HRM). This has included offi ce for the fi rst time. This years of regular employment. working to make the hiring application is part of the larger A maximum of 15 percent of process as effi cient as possible, enterprise architecture pro- the staff may serve an addi- strengthening in-service train- gram for the agency started in tional three and one-half years ing programs, and supporting 2003. with the personal approval of ongoing personnel systems and the Director. In 2002, Con- issues that arise. gress authorized an exception to this fi ve-year rule for positions directly related to safety and security; subsequently, the Director exempted 23 key positions.

American Diversity Program

The Peace Corps staff and programs and events, involv- addition, the agency has built Volunteers represent a broad ing the participation of 300 standard operating procedures range of ethnic heritages and staff members. For instance, for effi cient EEO complaint cultures. The experiences of a special program on the civil management, including new Volunteers throughout the rights movement commemo- offi cers, regular training, world add signifi cant cultural rated Martin Luther King and faster case processing. dimensions to the work of the Jr.’s birthday; and a parade of agency. With that in mind, the Asian fl ags, an ethnic fashion Peace Corps has expanded its show and food festival com- national monthly observances, memorated Asian/Pacifi c sponsoring more than 45 Islander Heritage Month. In

The Details In 2004, the Peace Corps began implementation of a human capital management system, which will fully automate human resource management. “Each night I sit with these four old men and learn their language. We go over simple phrases like, ‘How is the body?’ ‘The body is well.’ ‘I tell God thank you.’ But it is this small effort that brings us together.” Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Sierra Leone 42 Strengthening Agency Management and Financial Performance

New Accounting and Financial Management System

The most signifi cant manage- The transformation to the new Accomplishments in 2004: ment accomplishment during fi nancial management system • Hard close accounts for the past four years has been allowed the Peace Corps to fi rst time the modernization of the agen- produce the agency’s fi rst set cy’s accounting and fi nancial of auditable fi nancial state- • First set of agency auditable management systems. To be ments—a fi rst in the agency’s fi nancial statements compliant with requirements 43-year history. The fi nancial • Fully aligned internal of the Federal Accountability statements summarize the planning and budget of Tax Dollars Act of 2002, Peace Corps’ fi nancial position; processes to GPRA the Peace Corps initiated a disclose the net cost of opera- requirements including multi-million dollar three-year tions and changes in net posi- measurable standards transformation project to tion; and provide information • Gap analysis replace 20-year-old legacy sys- on budgetary resources and tems with Odyssey/FOR Post. fi nancing. Where possible, the • Performance and This is an integrated fi nancial fi nancial statements conform Accountability Report system that meets federal to the hierarchy of account- allowing an audit of the standards and can support ing principles approved by the GPRA progress operations worldwide in real Federal Accounting Standards time—a new modern system Advisory Board, OMB Bul- for the 21st century. The new letin 01-09, Form and Content fi nancial management system of Agency Financial State- integrates and streamlines the ments; and the Department fi nancial management and of the Treasury’s Financial reporting process, improves Manual and related bulletins. the ability to audit the agency’s records, and reduces duplica- In the fi rst full year of its tive and error-prone data entry. operation, the new system A transaction starts with a required signifi cant staff train- requester and passes through ing worldwide, reviewing and the entire fi nancial process adjusting staffi ng structures without the data needing to and duties, closing out old be reentered. Purchasing and accounts, and reengineering payment on all transactions, business processes. With sig- contracts, and awards are nifi cant system design, devel- refl ected in the fi nancial sys- opment, and implementation tem in the originating foreign completed by the end of fi scal currency. year 2004, the Odyssey/FOR Post project is progressing toward achieving full compliance by fi scal year 2007. Achieving Results Launched in 2003, the Odyssey/FOR Post system is the new integrated, agency-wide fi nancial management system that provides the core accounting and fi nancial management modules to the agency’s 72 posts worldwide, 11 recruiting offi ces nationwide, and headquarters. In the fi rst full year of its operation, the new system required signifi cant staff training worldwide, reviewing and adjusting staffi ng structures and duties, closing out old accounts, and readjusting software programs. By the end of the changeover, all accounting and fi nancial business practices were completely reengineered. 44 Strengthening Agency Management and Financial Performance

Enterprise Architecture; Technology and Management Upgrades

In 2001, the Peace Corps initi- Like all federal agencies, the Many new implemented man- ated an agency-wide multiyear Peace Corps has been upgrad- agement upgrades have been enterprise architecture (EA) ing its computer systems at supported by agency-wide mapping and process improve- headquarters, the 11 domestic review boards operating as a ment exercise. In the exercise, regional recruitment offi ces, part of the EA project. These the details of how the agency and in each of the agency’s new systems have streamlined does business were reviewed, 72 host countries. Each host the work of headquarters including existing and desired country presents its own chal- staff as well as country direc- systems. The initial focus of lenges for electronic change tors, administrative offi cers, EA was on the Volunteer De- based on in-country regula- and Peace Corps medical of- livery System (VDS), post op- tions, infrastructure, and local fi cers, resulting in improved erations, and HRM processes. support. support for the Volunteers. These are now models for • Developed an improved systems review in international During the past four years the vehicle fl eet plan for posts programming and training. Peace Corps has: with established criteria • Replaced or upgraded 900 Overall EA has: • Automated leases and computers; property agreements • Institutionalized an agency- • Migrated 65 international • Institutionalized a wide governance process posts from Macintosh-based that includes an investment state of the art property to personal computer (PC) inventory system review board that meets systems; monthly to review and • Automated space review approve all technology- • Introduced and supported and usage, including new related initiatives; portable satellite and VSAT offi ces, as needed technology; • Institutionalized an EA • Updated, regularized, and advisory board and IT • Signifi cantly improved computerized acquisition change control board; and information technology and shipping processes (IT) and communication • Documented “as-is” security; • Revamped internal architecture for seven units and external mail and “to-be” architecture for • Designed an implemented delivery systems two units. VIDA for Volunteer information management; • Implemented an electronic process for transportation of medical records; • Implemented a solution for international secure fi le transfer; and • Hired IT specialists at all posts.

The Details In 2004, the Peace Corps received both the Federal Mail Manager of the Year and the Federal Mail Center Excellence awards—the ﬁ rst time that a single agency received both awards. Peace Corps Manual, Worldwide Policies and Procedures

The Peace Corps continually ing material and creating new reviews and updates its Peace tools using the latest technol- Corps Manual to refl ect any ogy. Additionally, the compli- changing policies or adminis- ance offi ce tracked manual trative revisions. The manual is sections’ adherence and man- accessible through the agency agement compliance to direc- Intranet and updated CD- tives from the agency Director. ROMs are regularly sent to 72 posts and 11 domestic fi eld The Peace Corps has also offi ces. The Offi ces of General strengthened its ethics policies Counsel and Management and procedures to comply with identify out-of-date or con- fi nancial disclosure require- fl icting policies. These offi ces ments. New ethics regulations have revised 25 Peace Corps were drafted, more than 500 Manual sections, issued nine employees were trained, and interim policy statements and the agency achieved a 100 fi ve partial statements, and percent compliance record designed an effi cient system to on fi nancial disclosure. update manual sections as policies change. Particular focus Although the Peace Corps has has been placed on Volunteer answered requests for infor- issues such as safety and secu- mation throughout its history, rity, travel, leave, and conduct. some of which are under the Freedom of Information Act Through the compliance of- (FOIA), it has never had a for- fi ce, the agency has created mal system (outside of the ex- and implemented an original ecutive secretariat) for manag- compliance system focusing ing the FOIA request process. on establishing management In 2003, the agency formal- controls and criteria for verifi - ized its responses to these re- cation, including clarity of ex- quests and established a track- pectations, materials needed, ing and fee system, a reading deadlines, and tracking. The room, education and training offi ce established the proper programs, and hired staff tools for reporting and track- dedicated to FOIA requests. ing—including revising exist-

“This generation needs to know the Peace Corps, needs to know what hope is.” Fijian Minister of Regional Development

The Details The position of chief compliance ofﬁ cer was created to ensure compliance to the Peace Corps Manual by all ofﬁ ces of the agency. theme Making Safety and Security 5 The Overarching Priority

The safety and security of each Volunteer is the agency’s top priority. The Peace Corps is committed to developing optimum conditions for a safe and fulﬁ lling experience for every Peace Corps Volunteer. 48 Making Safety and Security the Overarching Priority

The Peace Corps will continue to do all it takes to make the Volunteer experience

as productive, meaningful, and safe as possible.

indful of the new security environment borne from the events of September 11, 2001, Peace Corps Director Gaddi Vasquez Mhas continued to enhance safety and security measures since he took ofﬁ ce in February 2002.

Safety and security issues are fully integrated into all aspects of Volunteer recruitment, training, and service, with an emphasis on Volunteers taking personal responsibility for their own safety at all times and successfully assimilating into their communities. Key safety messages are provided throughout the recruitment, application, and training process—from recruiters; on the website; in printed application materials, informational booklets, and educational videos; and during the two days of staging and the two to three months of in-country pre-service training and continuing in-service training.

THE DETAILS Key Safety Messages: • Being a Volunteer involves risk. • The Peace Corps has an effective safety support system in place. • Volunteers can and are expected to adopt safe lifestyles. “After having been over there and visiting, we have found that we have no cause for concern because the village she lives in is a wonderful place and the people have embraced her and they really love her, so she is quite safe over there and she’s doing some great work.” Parent of Volunteer Serving in Tonga 50 Making Safety and Security the Overarching Priority

Organizational Efforts

Based on the Director’s personal The safety and security team experience as a former public was restructured to better safety offi cial, other agency communicate, supervise, experts’ suggestions, the recom- monitor, and help set safety mendations and fi ndings from and security policy. the General Accounting Offi ce’s July 2002 report on Volunteer This new security staff includes: safety, and Volunteers in the • a new associate director of fi eld, the Peace Corps created safety and security, and implemented several important safety enhancements. In • a chief compliance offi cer, 2002, the Director approved the • a research psychologist, creation of a new Offi ce of Safety • a safety and security coordi- and Security and increased full- nator in each of the agency’s time safety and security staff 72 overseas posts, and by 80 members, 95 percent of whom are deployed overseas. • a safety and security desk offi cer for each Peace Corps region.

Overall Advances

In addition to the staff chang- Regular and ongoing safety and The availability of safety and se- es, further advances in safety security training for staff; curity information on the Peace and security include: Corps website; An updated Volunteer site loca- Standard operating procedures tor form identifying multiple Comprehensive safety and secu- and a new template for posts to methods of contact; rity information in the Volunteer use in developing their emer- Handbook; and gency action plans; Revised site development criteria to assist in the selection of The development of a compli- Procedures for Volunteer/trainee safe and secure Volunteer sites, ance system with six-month safety and security (Peace Corps with a standardized housing reviews and reports to the Manual, section 270) to mea- checklist, maps, lists and other Inspector General. sure and monitor posts’ compli- documentation; ance with important safety and security requirements; An enhanced safety and security information message as an Twelve hours of pre-departure applicant’s ﬁ rst contact with (staging) training built around Peace Corps, during recruitment Volunteer roles and responsibili- and throughout the application ties for safety and security for process; new trainees; “At ﬁ rst I was very worried about communicating, but there was never a problem. We talk more than when she was home! There is constant communication. I am learning how the Peace Corps is very concerned and loyal to their Volunteers.” Linda Pasqua Mother of Keri Badach, Volunteer in Peru 52 Making Safety and Security the Overarching Priority

In-Country

Peace Corps safety and security Emergency action plans (EAPs) offi cers (PCSSOs) play a vital are country-specifi c documents new role in conducting coun- that outline a detailed plan of try-specifi c safety and security action to be followed by the risk assessments. Working with post in the event of emergency a country director, a PCSSO situations, including an evacua- will enter the host country and tion. In early 2004, the Director consult with embassy personnel, approved new standard operat- local NGOs, government minis- ing procedures with guidance tries, police offi cials, and Peace related to safety and security Corps staff to review the current and emergency planning. The safety and security environment updated guidance standard- and offer suggested enhance- izes the EAPs with a template, ments when necessary. establishes requirements for essential components of each plan, Early in 2004, the Peace Corps and mandates a regular testing formalized its worldwide guid- cycle that must be in place for a ance that recommends a mini- post to be in compliance. mum of two site visits by post staff during the fi rst year (in- Volunteers need to know how cluding one visit within the fi rst to handle emergency situa- three months) and one visit dur- tions, from individual Volunteer ing the second year. In addition accidents to entire country to these minimum guidelines, evacuations. There have been 11 each post develops country- successful evacuations of posts specifi c standards on the timing since 2001. and frequency of site visits to Volunteers in-country.

“Peace Corps Volunteers are examples of the great compassion of our nation … Your selfless efforts to bridge cultures, to promote education, health, and economic opportunity, and to strengthen ties of goodwill among the poorest of the world contribute to a more hopeful future for all.” President George W. Bush

The Details Peace Corps diligently monitors the safety and security at each post and does not hesitate to take action if the need arises to move Volunteers out of harm’s way. At Headquarters

To better manage emergencies, also been exempted. While these the Peace Corps created a fully 23 positions are the most clear- equipped “situation room” at cut and readily justifi able ap- headquarters that is dedicated plications of the new authority, to handling situations as they the Director retains the author- arise. The room contains emer- ity to exempt other positions in gency contact information and the future. The exemptions are descriptions of the roles and an effort to enhance continuity responsibilities of emergency and build greater institutional task force members. Staff train- knowledge of safety and security ing for handling emergencies is issues. ongoing, using material drawn from the Peace Corps’ extensive The Peace Corps uses four key experience with emergency situ- elements in establishing and ations and the agency’s com- maintaining its safety and se- prehensive Evacuation Support curity framework for Volunteers Guide. Redundant communica- and staff: research, planning, tion systems enable the Peace training, and compliance. Corps to provide uninterrupted support of post operations in Safety and security informa- the event of an emergency at tion is tracked and analyzed by Peace Corps headquarters. the safety and security research psychologist. This information The Peace Corps is a unique fed- helps to enhance existing poli- eral agency in that most employ- cies and develop new policies ees are limited to serving the and procedures, as needed. agency for fi ve years. In 2002, After careful analysis and plan- Congress gave the Peace Corps ning, changes are being inte- authority to exempt certain grated throughout the agency. positions associated with safety Volunteer training includes the and security from the fi ve-year most up-to-date safety and rule. After careful consideration, security information available. 23 positions were exempted Finally, compliance is essential from the rule. Nineteen of these to ensure the integrity and top- positions are in the Offi ce of priority of safety and security Safety and Security, which is measures over the course of the Peace Corps offi ce primarily time. Each of these compo- responsible for Volunteer safety nents helps create a framework and security. One safety and to safeguard the well-being of security desk offi cer position in Volunteers and staff, institution- each of the regional directorates alizing the procedures to enable has been designated as exempt, future leadership to carry out and the position of director of the noble goals and mission of quality improvement in the the Peace Corps. Offi ce of Medical Services has

The Details To enhance continuity and build greater institutional knowledge of safety and security issues, the Peace Corps permanently exempted 23 safety and security positions from the agency’s ﬁ ve-year employment limit. 54 Photo Index

theme 1 theme 2

intro page (top to bottom) intro page Education Volunteer, Benin Agriculture Volunteer, Burkina Faso Youth Volunteer, Belize Health Volunteer, Benin

page 2 page 16 Married Volunteers (Education), Armenia President Touré of Mali speaking at the Peace Corps page 3 page 17 Young man in ﬁ eld, Guatemala Health Volunteer and host-country page 5 counterpart, Guyana Health Volunteer, Tonga page 21

page 6 (left to right) Education Volunteer, Tonga Environment Volunteer, Belize pages 22-23 Volunteer at market day, Moldova Volunteer and host-country child, Mongolia Agriculture Volunteer and host-country counterpart, Tonga page 24 (left to right) Education Volunteer, Benin page 9 Village matriarch, Benin Education Volunteer, Kazakhstan Education Volunteer, South Africa page 11 page 26 Young man ringing makeshift school bell, Benin Peace Corps Week brochure (2005) page 12 page 27 Crisis Corps Volunteer and host-country children, community beautiﬁ cation effort, Guatemala Education Volunteer and class, Guatemala

page 13 Crisis Corps Volunteers, rebuilding, Honduras theme 3 theme 5 intro page (top to bottom) intro page (top to bottom) Volunteer, Mongolia Business Volunteer, Kazakhstan

Agriculture Volunteer, Kyrgyz Republic Education Volunteer, Belize page 30 page 48 Host-country national, Palau Married Volunteers, Guyana page 31 page 49

Education Volunteer and students, Turkmenistan Agriculture and Business Volunteer, Panama pages 32-33 page 50 Education Volunteer and host-country Host-country nationals, Kyrgyz Republic national, Guyana page 51 page 35 Host-country nationals, Kyrgyz Republic Business Volunteer and host-country counterpart, Belize page 52 Business Volunteer and the chief and residents of theme 4 her host-country village, Ghana intro page (top to bottom) page 53

Agriculture Volunteer, Guatemala IT Volunteer, Moldova IT Volunteer, Tonga Director Vasquez with Peace Corps Volunteers, Morocco page 38 Host-country national, Turkmenistan page 39 Volunteer classroom, Benin pages 41 Agriculture Volunteer and host-country nationals, Nicaragua page 43 Business Volunteer and the chief and residents of her host-country village, Ghana page 45

IT Volunteer, Moldova

Married Volunteers at the Peace Corps ofﬁ ces, Armenia

Peace Corps Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Headquarters 1111 2 0 t h S t r e e t N W Washington DC 20526 www.peacecorps.gov 800.424.8580