The U.S. Peace Corps was established in 1961 to promote world peace and friendship by fulfilling 3 goals:1. To help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.2. To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.3. To help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.

Volunteers from New Jersey who returned from service established an organization in 1978, known as the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of New Jersey, Inc. (RPCV-NJ).

RPCV-NJ MISSION STATEMENT

The Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of New Jersey, Inc., a non-profit organization comprised of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers and former Peace Corps Staff as well as other individuals who promote the ideals of the United States Peace Corps, is established to:

• Support the Peace Corps’ mission as well as that of the National Peace Corps Association,

• Support active and recently returned volunteers, 

• Create and support a social network for returned volunteers and     

• Facilitate collaboration and volunteerism with organizations with similar goals.

FUNDING PROJECTS: Projects being undertaken by active Peace Corps volunteers from New Jersey are supported financially with grants from RPCV-NJ. Other projects, whether in the U.S. or abroad, consistent with RPCV-NJ goals are supported also.

SERVICE/VOLUNTEERING:RPCV-NJ organizes volunteer opportunities for community service projects. Working at food banks, participating in the Jersey Cares project(s), helping to plant and harvest potatoes for the needy at Howell Farms in Mercer County are examples of our service activities.

OUTREACH/THIRD GOAL:In collaboration with the Peace Corps World Wise Schools program, www.peacecorps.gov/wws/ requests for speakers at schools (any level), civic organizations etc. are coordinated by our Outreach Committee, allowing returned volunteers in NJ to offer their time and experience to give educational presentations about their intercultural experience.

LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY:RPCV-NJ works to encourage legislative action which supports the goals of the US Peace Corps.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES:Events are organized for RPCVs, family members and friends as well as prospective Peace Corps volunteers to gather and socialize. Ethnic dining and picnics are among the activities arranged.

If you are interested in learning more or joining in our efforts & activities, visit us: www.rpcv-nj.org or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RPCVNJ