By Lucy Beeler
The Center for Community Engagement is excited to establish the Peace Corps Prep program at Missouri State University. The official partnership between the Peace Corps and the university is designed to prepare students for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps Service.
What is Peace Corps?
The Peace Corps was founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. Since that time, the government-run program has sent American volunteers to 141 countries across the globe. Peace Corps volunteers serve within a variety of sectors, including education, health, environment, agriculture, youth in development, and community economic development, meaning there is something for everyone. The Peace Corps mission is to “promote world peace and friendship,” by implementing three goals:
- To help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.
- To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.
- To help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
To find out more information about the Peace Corps and various volunteer openings, check out the website.
Why is the Peace Corps Prep Program important to Missouri State University?
Missouri State University implements learning in the framework of public affairs. Through the Peace Corps Prep program, students will directly engage in Missouri State’s public affairs mission, which includes pillars of cultural competence, ethical leadership, and community engagement. The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) will serve as a central hub for the program, connecting students with resources and experiences on and off campus. The CCE has a variety of ways to get students involved. Through completing a service-learning course, signing up for service opportunities, going on a Bear Breaks Immersion trip, or participating in Bear Service there are opportunities for all. The CCE’s goal is to help students learn how to become active citizens who have a passion for using their skills in the community.
If you would like to learn more information about MSU’s Peace Corps Prep program, visit www.missouristate.edu/cce/peaceprep.htm, call us at 417-836-5774, or drop by our office located in Plaster Student Union 131.
The Center for Community Engagement