The Peace Corps has three goals:
- Provide countries with skilled workers
- Teach host nations about America
- Teach Americans about the host countries
and
To further the third goal, during Peace Corps Week (this week,) former volunteers are encouraged to speak to their local communities about their service. I just got back from the Lewiston Public Library where I gave a talk to three hardy individuals who braved the snowstorm that has moved in upon us. Although the turnout may have been greater had there not been a snowstorm, I was extremely happy to talk with those who did come.
My friend Sarah always said that if we touched at least one person, we had done our job well. Perhaps none of tonight’s audience members will themselves join, but at least they will have a better understanding of the Peace Corps and be able to speak about it with others.
As the snow falls outside and I pray for a ski day tomorrow, I also hope that a few Lewistonians will make that leap and perhaps themselves have the luxury of enacting this 3rd goal a few years from now.