Sixty-three years after the Peace Corps was created, its mission is more relevant than ever.

On Sept. 22, the United States Peace Corps, members of the Northern California Peace Corps Association and Peace Corps volunteers around the world celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the Peace Corps Act. In a White House press release after signing the Act on Sept. 22, 1961, President John F. Kennedy said, “With the enactment of this legislation, an avenue is provided by which Americans can serve their country in the cause of world peace and understanding and simultaneously assist other nations toward their legitimate goals of freedom and opportunity.”

Kennedy’s landmark action came eight months after his inaugural address when he said, “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.”

Kennedy challenged Americans to serve, and the Peace Corps became part of his legacy.

Since the first Peace Corps volunteers began their two-year assignments overseas in 1961, more than 240,000 volunteers have served in 140 countries. During their in-country service, Peace Corps volunteers build collaborative relationships, promote exchanges of culture and knowledge, and have helped improve lives. Peace Corps work includes agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health and youth.

“Americans can serve in the cause of world peace.”

I served in Barbados from 1979 to 1981. I had the honor of helping the island’s government establish its first marine protected area, Folkestone Marine Park and Visitor Centre. I loved my job because it was a significant challenge with positive results. Today, 43 years later, staff are still educating Bajans and visitors about the Caribbean marine environment.

Today, more than 2,600 Peace Corps volunteers are serving in nearly 60 countries to promote world peace and friendship. The number of countries seeking volunteers is increasing because the Peace Corps is more relevant than ever.

Recognizing the accomplishments of thousands of returned Peace Corps volunteers’ service, I am in the process of seeking a Congressional Gold Medal nomination for volunteers who served our nation and meet appropriate criteria. According to a 2024 Congressional Research Service report, “Among the various forms of recognition that Congress bestows, the Congressional Gold Medal is often considered the most distinguished.” Awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to qualified volunteers is overdue.

Today, and whenever the opportunity arises, I hope you will thank returned Peace Corps volunteers for their service. And encourage people seeking exciting ways to promote world peace to become Peace Corps volunteers.

PATRICK COTTER is a retired environmental scientist who lives in Pacific Grove. He is a member of the Northern California Peace Corps Association and the National Peace Corps Association. Returned Peace Corps volunteers in the Monterey Bay region can connect at norcalpca.org/join