The Peace Corps is an independent federal agency that recruits and trains American volunteers to serve in communities overseas on projects in areas such as education, health, agriculture, and economic development. It aims to meet developing countries' needs for trained workers while promoting mutual understanding between Americans and the people they serve. Volunteers are posted only in partner countries that request the Peace Corps' assistance.
Created by Congress under the Peace Corps Act (Pub. L. 87-293, 75 Stat. 612; 22 U.S.C. ch. 34 (Sec. 2501 et seq.)), it acts within the authority that statute grants. Its actions are subject to judicial review and to congressional oversight and funding.
