The Power of Affiliation

Fueling the fire and passing the torch to the next generation of Peace Corps Volunteers

NPCA President Dan Baker with members of the Chicago Area Peace Corps Association in 2023Bound by our shared commitment to global peace and understanding, I am often reminded of the immense power that lies within our collective hands. The global challenges we face today are numerous and daunting, from the pressing threats of climate change and pandemics to the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of civil dialogue and compromise. In the face of such formidable obstacles, it is imperative that we, as RPCVs armed with a unique worldview, stand united in our resolve to promote peace, justice, and compassion across borders.

One of the most powerful ways we do this is by staying involved in RPCV groups here at home – more than 130 and counting – that continue to bring Peace Corps values to their communities, countries of service, places of work, and the causes they care about. Whether you are involved in a regional RPCV group, an advocacy organization, or a service-oriented initiative, your participation is invaluable in helping to uphold the ideals of Peace Corps and advance our shared mission. This issue of WorldView is dedicated to you.

If every RPCV can help identify one Peace Corps aspirant and guide them through the application process, our numbers will grow exponentially.

Importantly, most active RPCV groups maintain an official affiliation with NPCA and participate in a network that plays a vital role in calling attention to urgent common causes, maintaining connections and supporting countries where we served, and connecting communities through service, philanthropy, and storytelling. More specifically, affiliating amplifies our collective voice in advocating for Peace Corps in the halls of Congress; gives groups opportunities for supplemental funding; provides access to membership management, communications, and marketing tools; and offers a host of other resources and networking opportunities. As Peace Corps Volunteers know from experience, our community is stronger when we work together. I highly encourage all RPCV groups to affiliate with NPCA as we continue to strengthen and expand the services we provide.

One of the most urgent tasks before us as RPCVs is to increase the number of Peace Corps Volunteers serving in the field, especially as the agency seeks to reestablish its programs around the world following the COVID-19 pandemic.

We can all help by joining the “Each One Reach One” campaign we are launching in collaboration with Peace Corps. Its goal is to mobilize our network and pass the torch to a new generation of Volunteers. If every RPCV can help identify one Peace Corps aspirant and guide them through the application process, our numbers will grow exponentially. More information about how to get involved can be found on the back cover of this issue. By working individually to support a new wave of dedicated and passionate individuals, we can ensure that Peace Corps continues to make a meaningful impact for years to come.

As members of the Peace Corps community, we have been blessed with a unique opportunity to engage with the rest of the world, and it is our duty and privilege to rise to the occasion. Together, let us rally around the cause of peace and understanding, knowing that our efforts, however small they may seem, have the power to change lives and shape the course of history.

Dan Baker (Bolivia 1999–2002; Timor-Leste 2002–03) is president and CEO of the National Peace Corps Association.