Fifty years ago today, the Peace Corps was established.
Since that time, thousands of Americans of all ages have volunteered to live and work in developing countries around the world.
I was a volunteer in Moldova (2003-5), a small country between Romania and Ukraine that was once a part of the former Soviet Union. I volunteered when I was 40. I taught English at a university, but like so many volunteers, I learned just as much as I taught.
I learned Romanian and a little Russian, but mostly I learned what was really important in life: family (natural or adopted), friends (old and new), and working to make life better for everyone around you. Material things can be nice, but really we don't need all that much. What most people want and need is really pretty basic: clean air and water, enough food and a little wine or beer, honest jobs that pay a living wage, good schools for our kids, and health care when we need it.
Peace Corps has taught Americans about the world, and PCVs have taught the world about America at its best.
Share your Peace Corps stories below in the comments. If you think you might be interested in becoming a volunteer, go to peacecorps.gov for more information. Write or call Congress and ask them to keep Peace Corps funding strong.
I would do it again. In a heartbeat. It is one of the best choices I ever made.