Democracy Calling

Sustaining NPCA’s legacy of peace

Can you name five people who served in the Peace Corps who have gone on to achieve towering accomplishments or influence hundreds of lives in their careers? Easy, right? Our legions of Volunteers, 250,000 who have served since 1963, are the people changing the world and our country in ways few others can claim.

Simply put, Peace Corps service makes America better. As Returned Peace Corps Volunteers in these turbulent times, it is incumbent upon us to ensure the future of Peace Corps and protect its legacy by standing in unity for our common cause: fostering international peace and friendship abroad, and national service at home.

At NPCA, we believe we’ve only scratched the surface of the potential our network has to be a driver toward a better world. What if all these points of light were captured and rolled up into one story? That’s what we do at the National Peace Corps Association. Our community thrives because of the support and connection NPCA weaves across our membership and the 148 affiliate groups we partner with.

The 36,000 RPCVs who participate in NPCA activities serve as “foot soldiers” at the state and community level to advocate for and to ensure the visibility of the Peace Corps, continue to serve both at home and abroad, and are the fabric of a robust social network for our community. Last year alone, RPCV groups and individuals contributed $1.6 million in support of programs nationally and worldwide, sent 15,000 messages to Congress in support of the Peace Corps, and helped prevent $20 million in cuts to the Peace Corps budget.

NPCA President Dan Baker, Advocacy Director Jonathan Pearson, and intern Cynthia Capurso hosting the NPCA table at event

Without NPCA, that connection—and our collective impact—could fade. By giving to NPCA, you help RPCVs tap into a vast network of personal and professional opportunities as they transition back home. Your support also enables our communications and advocacy programs to amplify your stories and fight for the policies that matter to us most.

You’re not just donating to NPCA—you’re ensuring that our community of changemakers continues to thrive and create lasting global impact. Every donation fuels the projects, advocacy, and bonds that keep us going. Your gift today keeps the spirit of service alive.

As we close out the year, I ask you to remember what your own service meant and how much stronger we are when we’re united. Let’s make sure that future generations of Volunteers have the same support to carry on the legacy of change we’ve all worked so hard to build at a time when budget cuts and reductions in federal expenditures are under threat.

Our strength lies in our shared impact. Let’s stand united. Please help keep NPCA and our community strong with your support today.