“We are surrounded here by monuments to wars and battles, but it is imperative that we celebrate how enriched this nation is by global service, idealism and the understanding and wisdom we get by learning how others see the world that we all share.”
– Maureen Orth (Peace Corps Colombia)
Peace Corps Park will tell the rest of America’s story
Authorized by Congress and to be located near the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall, Peace Corps Park will honor the spirit of service and global community fostered by the Peace Corps since 1961.
Filling a gap in Washington's memorials, Peace Corps Park will offer a unique narrative of America’s commitment to service and global citizenship.
This welcoming space will honor the past and inspire future generations to engage in service that transcends borders. The park's design, featuring carved granite benches representing outreaching hands around a world map, embodies friendship, peace, and understanding.
It reminds us of the over 250,000 Americans who have served through the Peace Corps and continue to make a difference locally as well as around the world.
A digital guide will enhance the experience, serving as both educator and storyteller. Accessible globally, it will share the Peace Corps' rich history, the diverse regions served, impactful projects, and personal journeys of volunteers.
Help us raise the $5 million still needed to complete construction planning and build Peace Corps Park, dedicated to inspiring others to making a better world and promoting peace.
At the Heart of the Nation’s Capital
Peace Corps Park will stand on a triangular site in the heart of Washington, DC, near the U.S. Capitol and National Mall.
Bounded by 1st Street NW on the west and C Street NW on the north, the site faces Louisiana Avenue NW opposite Taft Park. Union Station, the city’s major transportation terminal, is three blocks away at the north end of Louisiana Avenue.
The National Park Service will maintain Peace Corps Park in perpetuity.
With compassion, generosity, perseverance and respect,
Americans reach out to transcend boundaries.
Through volunteer service Americans help protect the environment, improve public health, better educate children and adults, increase economic productivity and security, eliminate hunger, achieve social justice and promote peace.
Mutual understanding, commitment and collaboration have enabled us to work together to meet these challenges.
Americans and peoples of other nations must continue working together
to meet these challenges, just as Peace Corps volunteers began doing in 1961.
Images: Courtesy of The Peace Corps