what is the peace corps

The Peace Corps is an independent agency and program of the United States government that trains and deploys volunteers to provide international development assistance. The Peace Corps brings together skilled, committed volunteers with welcoming host communities for service opportunities in more than 60 countries. Volunteers live and work side by side with community members on locally prioritized projects, building relationships, exchanging cultures and knowledge, and helping transform lives for generations. The official goal of the Peace Corps is to assist developing countries by providing skilled workers in fields such as education, health, entrepreneurship, womens empowerment, and community development. Volunteers are American citizens, typically with a college degree, who are assigned to specific projects in certain countries based on their qualifications and experience. The Peace Corps offers diverse opportunities across six sectors: agriculture, education, environment, health, community economic development, and youth in development. Volunteers receive a stipend and other support as they are immersed in a new culture, and they also receive transition funds to help them resettle upon their close of service. The Peace Corps aims to educate community members on different illnesses that are present in developing countries as well as what treatments exist in order to prevent these illnesses from spreading. Volunteers are also often there to teach community members about modern agricultural techniques and other skills.