ABSTRACT
Since 1961, the Peace Corps, an independent agency of the United States government, has worked in developing countries under its mission to promote international peace and friendship through the service abroad of American volunteers. All applicants to the Peace Corps are required to have a personal interview to assess the motivation, life skills, and special abilities they bring to volunteer service. The personal attributes by which applicants are assessed are: motivation and commitment, productive competence, social sensitivity and cultural awareness, emotional maturity and adaptability. The relative merits of privacy vs. security and proximity to neighbors are discussed openly with volunteers prior to placement. Volunteer sites are assessed and approved by Peace Corps and/or host government officials before volunteers arrive to ensure the placement is appropriate and reasonably safe. Peace Corps expects that host communities and local agencies will provide the first level of support to volunteers.
