Western Washington University

03/13/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/13/2026 19:08

Washington state declares Peace Corps Week in honor of the organization’s 65th anniversary

Washington state declares Peace Corps Week in honor of the organization's 65th anniversary

March 13, 2026

Governor Bob Ferguson issued a proclamation designating March 1-7, 2026, as "Peace Corps Week."

To mark the 65th anniversary of the Peace Corps, Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson issued a proclamation designating March 1-7, 2026, as "Peace Corps Week."

"The Peace Corps' mission to foster global friendship and peace has remained unchanged for 65 years," said WWU Peace Corps Campus Recruiter Jerry Smith. "WWU continues to lead the nation among mid-size schools in recruitment, playing a key role in making the Peace Corps one of the most enduring, building bridges of understanding between Americans and their global neighbors."

The proclamation states that approximately 250,000 people, including 10,142 from Washington state, have served in the Peace Corps since its founding 65 years ago.

It goes on to say that Peace Corps volunteers make "meaningful and enduring contributions in areas such as agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, and youth in development, improving lives and strengthening communities worldwide" and "upon returning home, these volunteers demonstrate an enduring commitment to public and private sector service and share their experience, valuable leadership, and management, communication and intercultural skills, enriching communities across our state and nation."

Founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, the Peace Corps has served in more than 140 countries over the past six decades. Its mission is to promote world peace by assisting interested countries in meeting their need for skilled volunteers, fostering greater understanding of Americans among the people served, and deepening Americans' understanding of other cultures.

Learn more about Peace Corps at WWU here.

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