NPCA Board member Mike Roman highlighted Peace Corps advocacy and the impact of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) during a public viewing of the documentary A Towering Task, organized by the Central Ohio RPCV Association at Columbus Peace Corps Day.
by Michael Roman (RPCV Kiribati 2000–02, NPCA Board Member)
Columbus, OH — As Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, community leaders, and local officials gathered to celebrate Columbus Peace Corps Day, I had the honor of representing the National Peace Corps Association as a guest speaker alongside the city’s mayor. The event was filled with energy, warmth, and a profound sense of shared purpose.
When the Peace Corps faces significant uncertainties, NPCA board members serve as ambassadors, working to ensure the voices of RPCVs and their communities are heard. The event offered a meaningful space to share NPCA updates and reflect on our community’s crucial role in advancing the Peace Corps mission.
During my remarks, I emphasized four key points:
- Peace Corps Uncertainty & Advocacy Efforts
I addressed the concerns many RPCVs have voiced regarding the Peace Corps’s future. With limited public information, potential budget and staffing cuts, and funding freezes for field projects, uncertainty looms. While the Peace Corps has taken a low-profile approach, behind-the-scenes advocacy is ongoing, with strong congressional engagement and partnerships like the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. - NPCA’s Role & Achievements
Despite being a small but mighty team, NPCA continues to lead national advocacy efforts for the Peace Corps community. In 2024 alone, NPCA has supported 148 affiliate groups, facilitated over 150 advocacy meetings on Capitol Hill, and secured a five-year Memorandum of Understanding with the Peace Corps. We also organized the first in-person Peace Corps Connect conference in five years, and our campaign for a Congressional Gold Medal to honor Peace Corps Volunteers is gaining momentum. - Demonstrating RPCV Impact
I highlighted the immense contributions of RPCVs across the U.S., from entrepreneurship to public service and community leadership. Through personal stories and data-backed reports, NPCA continues to showcase how RPCVs strengthen our nation’s safety, prosperity, and global leadership. - Future NPCA Initiatives: “Stand Up for Service”
Looking ahead, NPCA’s “Stand Up for Service” campaign will expand advocacy efforts at both state and national levels. We aim to inform RPCVs through verified updates and activate the community through calls to action. Additionally, we are investing in NPCA’s long-term growth through fundraising, WorldView magazine, and upcoming Peace Corps Connect events.
What touched me most were the personal stories shared by RPCVs and community members after the event. Many approached me to express gratitude and to share how the Peace Corps has shaped their lives. The warmth of the Columbus RPCV community was evident, and I was reminded of how powerful our shared experiences are.
I was also deeply moved to receive a thoughtful follow-up note from the event organizer, who wrote:
“Peace Corps has enriched our lives. I appreciate your taking the time to come to Columbus. Your remarks at the event were meaningful and well-received. Keep working!”
Indeed, we must all keep working — to ensure that Peace Corps and its community continue to thrive. I’m proud to serve as part of this incredible organization and stand alongside many who believe in the power of service.
Pictured left to right, Nidhi Satiani, Upper Arlington School Board Member; Wallis (Wally) Harsch, RPCV and event organizer; Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, Upper Arlington City Council President; and Mike Roman from NPCA presented A Towering Task during Peace Corps Week, organized by the Central Ohio RPCV Association.