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 Question That Changed My Life: A Peace Corps Story to Raise Deaf Awareness
By Joshua Josa
“How are you 25, finished your BA, and already a teacher? I’m older than you and in Class 8 for the fourth year.”
When I first applied to the Peace Corps after finishing my BA at Cal State University, Northridge, I imagined two years of teaching, service, and adventure. I didn’t anticipate how profoundly the experience would change me—how the communities I served could show me so much value in sign languages and deaf ways of being.” Read more.
Reimagining Belonging in the Peace Corps: DEIA Panel Elevates Voices of Identity, Resistance, and Inclusion
By Mike Roman
“At Peace Corps Connect 2025, the panel ‘Reimagining Belonging in the Peace Corps: Inclusion, Identity, and Impact’ brought a deeply resonant and transformative conversation to the forefront of national service. Moderated by NPCA Board Member Jeffrey Janis (Ukraine 2004–06), the panel featured Returned Peace Corps Volunteers Josh Josa (Kenya 2010–12), Nicole Banister (South Africa 2013–16), and Deena Duwaik (Morocco 2016–18), each offering rich, intersectional perspectives on identity, equity, and representation.” Read more.
Across the Waters: Juneteenth and the Ties That Bind the Black Diaspora
By Erin Fallen
“On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a holiday in the United States. While the Fourth of July celebrates American independence, Juneteenth holds deeper significance for Black Americans—it marks the true end of slavery, when the last enslaved people in Texas were finally freed in 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. In simple terms, Juneteenth is our Fourth of July.” Read more.
Pride in Service: An LGBTQI+ Peace Corps Story
By LGBTQI+ RPCVs
“Serving in the Peace Corps is often described as a transformative experience, but for LGBTQ+ volunteers, it can be a journey marked by deep connection and complex identity navigation. For many, the Peace Corps becomes not only a site of service but also of self-discovery and resilience.” 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)
2025 News Articles
January
Addressing poverty requires solutions like living wages, affordable healthcare, education access, and housing support
February
A Reflection on my Peace Corps Experience
The Mongolian Lunar New Year Celebration
March
Celebrate Women’s History Month with Women of Peace Corps Legacy
Beyond Borders: Women of the Peace Corps
April
Intergenerational Environmental Action
Water as Far as the Eye can See
May
Pictures Worth a Thousand Words
June
Pride in Service: An LGBTQI+ Peace Corps Story
Across the Waters: Juneteenth and the Ties That Bind the Black Diaspora
July
Reimagining Belonging in the Peace Corps
The Question That Changed My Life: A Peace Corps Story to Raise Deaf Awareness
By Joshua Josa “How are you 25, finished your BA, and already a teacher? I’m older than you and in Class 8 for the fourth year.” When I first applied to the Peace Corps after finishing my BA at Cal...
Reimagining Belonging in the Peace Corps: DEIA Panel Elevates Voices of Identity, Resistance, and Inclusion
At Peace Corps Connect 2025, the panel "Reimagining Belonging in the Peace Corps: Inclusion, Identity, and Impact" brought a deeply resonant and transformative conversation to the forefront of national service. Moderated by NPCA Board Member Jeffrey Janis (Ukraine 2004–06), the...