Peace Corps/Friends of Haiti Launched

While there is not an active Peace Corps program in Haiti,  the organization continues to make a difference in Haiti through the 507 Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who served between 1982-1987, 1990-1991, and 1996-2005.  In March, Peace Corps/Friends of Haiti (PCFOH)  became the newest “Friends Of” Group to be recognized by the National Peace Corps Association.   You don’t have to be an RPCV to get involved!  Take a look at our temporary website (we'll improve it as time goes on), join in discussions about Haitian development issues, and feel free to reach out to us with your feedback and ideas.

In FY 2012, Peace Corps will determine whether, where, and how a volunteer program could be re-initiated in Haiti.  In the meantime, RPCVs are deeply involved in earthquake response and reconstruction activities – whether as volunteers or employees of non governmental organizations, international organizations, or the U.S. Government.  Numerous RPCVs are involved with organizations they served with as volunteers, including by serving on Boards of Directors and Advisory Committees.

PCFOH has reached out to Peace Corps/Friends of the Dominican Republic to discuss opportunities for collaboration.  This includes joint advocacy with Peace Corps, partnerships in and along the highly porous border between Haiti and the Dominican Public, and joint participation at events such as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival which will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Peace Corps.   Given that Haiti’s African roots are still very much intact, PCFOH has also reached out to Peace Corps/Friends of Benin to explore collaboration.  We also look forward to developing partnerships with the Diaspora, whose advocacy with and engagement of the Haitian government and civil society are essential for Haiti's long term development. 

In the months to come, we will keep you updated about PCFHOH events and activities.  You can also follow us on Facebook.  The Haiti Innovation and PCFOH websites are now linked and we welcome guest blogs and commentary respectively.  PCFOH thanks you for your interest in and solidarity with the Haitian people

Bryan