Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

National Peace Corps Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and does not speak for or necessarily represent the views of the Peace Corps. 

At NPCA, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are fundamental to our mission.

The National Peace Corps Association reaffirms its unwavering commitment to its mission, which is rooted in the values of service, cultural exchange, and global citizenship. These principles demand inclusivity, fairness, and recognition of the diverse perspectives that strengthen our community.

We stand firm in advocating for an equitable and inclusive society that is stronger, safer, and more prosperous for all. We acknowledge that our service experience has historically reflected disparities, and we remain committed to addressing systemic inequities within our community and the broader international service movement. We want to ensure service fosters meaningful change and more significant opportunities for everyone.

We stand in solidarity with those working to uphold the values of justice and inclusion; our commitment remains steadfast: to build a global community where all voices are heard, all contributions are valued, and all individuals can thrive. We invite our members and allies to join us in ensuring that the spirit of service and inclusivity remains at the heart of our work, now and in the future.

We must stand together—our strength lies in showing up for one another. The spirit of service and inclusivity must remain at the heart of our mission, now and in the future. Our diversity is our strength—we lead with it.

Defining Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

We define diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility as ensuring all people from different social and ethnic backgrounds, races, genders, ages, religions, sexual orientations, and abilities are seen, heard, respected, and valued.

Creating and Reinforcing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Our Community

We commit to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all facets of our organization and community, from staffing and board membership to programming and community engagement. 

Through our work, we will uphold our commitment by:

  • Providing a platform for potential volunteers to connect with RPCVs and learn more about pre-service experiences.
  • Offering spaces to market related affinity groups and their events.
  • Featuring opinion pieces on related issues to foster dialogue and understanding.
  • Providing tools and resources that promote inclusion and accessibility.

Our website comes equipped with ADA-inclusive accessibility tools.


Image: The Third Goal Podcast, National Peace Corps AssociationTHE THIRD GOAL PODCAST:  The Third Goal Podcast explores the human stories behind global issues—climate change, migration, global health, education, food and water security, gender equity, economic development, and peacebuilding. Hosted by Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, each episode brings voices from around the world into conversation, connecting lived experience to the communities we call home. Grounded in the Peace Corps’ Third Goal, this podcast highlights not only the work Volunteers do abroad but also how those experiences continue to shape careers, advocacy, and action long after service ends.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

 

FEATURED STORY: Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Jeannette (Jenny) is proud of herself and her Hispanic heritage

by Jeannette Sanchez 

I grew up as a mixed race Mexican American in Alaska who eventually moved to Missouri where I raised my two kids. When my children went off to college, I signed up for Peace Corps (PC) Response and one of my three PC assignments was in Guyana. Read more.

Join Us in Building an Inclusive Community

Explore our Affiliate groups dedicated to the mission of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Join one today and play an active role in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Together, we can make a difference and ensure every voice is heard and valued.

2026 News Articles

January

Arrest is not Rescue – and this Narrative Harms Survivors

Martin Luther King Jr. and the Peace Corps

February

A Reflection on my Peace Corps Experience

The Mongolian Lunar New Year Celebration

March

Celebrating 65 years from the field

From Ukraine to Guatemala: Peace Corps Lesson on Gender Equity

April

In the Village, Everything is Free


 

On the Road to Kinale

To get to the town of Kinale — a small settlement of mud huts and brick-and-mortar blocks situated in the high country along the Western edge of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya, East Africa — one must negotiate four...

The Longest Extra Time

Jill Tucker sat quietly in a bar, watching the World Cup match unfold on the TV with everyone else, when a man sitting nearby addressed her: “You were my teacher.” Tucker had served the Peace Corps in 1990, teaching English...

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