LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending the United States Peace Corps for 50
years of promoting peace and friendship around the world, to congratu-
late the organization on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, and to
honor the active and returned Peace Corps volunteers of New York

WHEREAS, The United States Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to
1960, when then-Senator John F. Kennedy challenged students to serve
their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing
countries; and
WHEREAS, From that inspiration grew a new agency of the federal
government, established by Executive Order 10924 on March 1, 1961, and
devoted to world peace and friendship; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the United States Peace Corps has
adapted and responded to the issues and challenges of the times with
innovation, creativity, determination, and compassion; and
WHEREAS, Peace Corps volunteers have made significant and lasting
contributions around the world in agriculture, education, health, busi-
ness development, and the environment, and have helped people build
better lives for themselves; their work in villages, towns, and cities
around the globe represents a legacy of service that has become a
significant part of America's history and positive image abroad; and
WHEREAS, This unique heritage continues to inspire and, since 1961,
more than 200,000 Americans have joined the United States Peace Corps,
serving in 139 countries and making a difference every day; of these,
12,392 volunteers have come from New York State, including members of
this legislature, making it the second highest volunteering state; and
WHEREAS, Currently, 8,600 volunteers and trainees serve in 77 nations,
including 445 volunteers from New York State; and
WHEREAS, Peace Corps volunteers have strengthened the ties of friend-
ship and understanding between the people of the United States and those
of other countries; and
WHEREAS, Peace Corps volunteers, enriched by their understanding of
other cultures and traditions and experiences overseas, have brought
home to their communities throughout the United States a commitment to
service, thereby bringing a domestic dividend to our nation; and
WHEREAS, Today's Peace Corps is more vital than ever; Peace Corps
volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a
better life for themselves, their children, and their communities; and
WHEREAS, It is indeed fitting to recognize the achievements of the
United States Peace Corps and to honor its volunteers, past and present,
and to reaffirm our country's commitment to helping people help them-
selves throughout the world; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the United States Peace Corps for 50 years of promoting peace
and friendship around the world, to congratulate the organization on the
occasion of its 50th anniversary, and to honor the active and returned
Peace Corps volunteers of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the United States Peace Corps.