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WHEREAS, the Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F. Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan so serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries ; and,
WHEREAS, the Peace Corps went on to be established through an executive order on March 1, 1961, becoming the agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship ; and,
WHEREAS, the mission of the Peace Corps is to help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women, help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the people served and help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans ; and,
WHEREAS, today, the Peace Corps has adapted and responded to the issue of the times, meeting new challenges with innovation, creativity, determination and compassion, with 8,655 volunteers currently serving in 71 posts and 77 countries and dealing with global issues such as the environment, information technology, HIV/Aids ; and,
WHEREAS, the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCV) formed the Pittsburgh Area Peace Corps Association, a group of former volunteers living in the Southwestern PA and West Virginia areas, who meet for fellowship and service and to share the life changing experiences they have had. They participate in the Crisis Corps Program which responds to crises in countries served by the Peace Corps because of the cultural knowledge they possess.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City if Pittsburgh does hereby recognize and commend the Peace Corps for 50 years of service to the world in the name of the United States of America and congratulates the Pittsburgh Area Peace Corps Association for building bridges of understanding and assistance with other countries; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Wednesday, March 2, 2011, to be "PEACE CORPS DAY" in the City of Pittsburgh.