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.
THE 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.
The Sunrise We Carry
By Mike Roman (Kiribati 00-02)
Twenty-six years ago, I stepped off a plane in Kiribati with a backpack, a notebook, and no real understanding of how deeply a place could shape a life. I believed I was there to serve. What I did not understand was that I was entering into a relationship, one that would stretch across decades, following me into classrooms, city halls, courtrooms, and conversations about what it means to move, to belong, and to survive in a changing world. Read more
In the Village, Everything is Free
By Declan Tomlinson (Fiji 2023-2025)
BULA!!!
In celebration of Earth Month! We are proud to bring to you this story from the beautiful islands of Fiji!
I’m sitting inside, eating freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. The kids are playing outside, so I lean close to keep listening to my host-mother. “In town, everything costs money, but here, you can farm cassava or walk to the mango tree. It’s all free.” My Fijian village is blessed with a bountiful tropical environment that provides more than enough food for everyone to share. “In the village, everything is free.” This phrase is as common as the tropical breeze, and it reminds me of the village’s special connection with nature. In village life, farmers work the land and reap what it yields. In town, they must deal with the headache of money and its abstractions. The land, in contrast, is not abstract and provides safety and freedom. As a volunteer teaching financial literacy, I hear this phrase used to explain the economic decision to stay in the village. 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.
Volunteer experiences (lgbtqi+)
Volunteer experiences (Ethnicity-Black)
Volunteer experiences (Ethnicity-Asian American/PI)
Volunteer experiences (Hispanic/Native)
Volunteer experiences (Seniors)
Volunteer experiences (Accessibility needs)
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
The Sunrise We Carry
By Mike Roman (Kiribati 00-02) Twenty-six years ago, I stepped off a plane in Kiribati with a backpack, a notebook, and no real understanding of how deeply a place could shape a life. I believed I was there to serve....
FY 2027 U.S. Senate Peace Corps Funding Request
We had a deadline of April 27 for swift, steady action urging Senators to sign the annual Peace Corps funding letter. We had less than one week to ask Senators to sign the funding letter, which was authored this year...