Peace Corps Polyglot: House Appropriations Subcommittee Votes $450 Million for Peace Corps

Despite limited funds to work with, the House Appropriations Subcommittee for State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs today took a major step forward to provide the resources for a bigger, better and bolder Peace Corps. In its "mark up" of programs within the International Affairs budget for Fiscal Year 2010, the subcommittee agreed to recommend a $450 Million appropriation for the Peace Corps. This decision was announced last night on MSNBC's Hardball with Chris Matthews by Subcommittee Chairwoman Nita Lowey. Click here to watch the program.

Eighteen months ago, the National Peace Corps Association launched the MorePeaceCorps Campaign anticipating an opportunity but realizing that a coordinated and sustained effort was necessary, Inspired by the indefatigable spirit of Peace Corps pioneer Harris Wofford, led by the enormous energy of our Campaign Coordinator Rajeev Goyal (Nepal 01-03) supported by Donald Ross (Nigeria 65-67) and his team at M+R Associates and fueled by the countless contributions of volunteer advocates across the nation, we all went to work: writing letters, making phone calls, hosting MorePeaceCorps House Parties, organizing constituent meetings with lawmakers, submitting letters to the editor and op/eds, taking part in a National Day of Action, marching in parades, attending rallies and much, much more..

It is very important to recognize that much more work remains, But today's action is an historic step forward! It is your historic step forward. Congratulations!

Take Action Now! - Say Thank You to Key Lawmakers

FOR ALL ADVOCATES:

Express HUGE thanks to the following four lawmakers for their superb leadership. (We encourage you to send brief emails, although some offices may only allow messages from constituents)

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY)

Email Link (only constituents can use this email link)

Phone: 202-225-6506

(As Chair of the key Subcommittee, Congresswoman Lowey played an absolutely critical role in including $450 Million in today's mark up. She should be thanked for her leadership)

Congressman Sam Farr (CA)

Email Link (only constituents can use this email link)

Phone: 202-225-2861

(The lead author of the Peace Corps Expansion Act of 2009, RPCV Congressman Farr has led the charge throughout the year for significant Peace Corps funding)

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN)

Email Link (only constituents can use this email link)

Phone: 202-225-6631

(Congresswoman McCollum has been a longstanding champion of the Peace Corps and has been a leading voice for funding within the Subcommittee)

Congressman Howard Berman (CA)

Email Link (only constituents can use this email link)

Phone: 202-225-4695

(As Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Berman agreed to include $450 Million in comprehensive foreign assistance legislation)

IF ONE OF THESE LAWMAKERS (BELOW) IS YOUR REPRESENTATIVE:

Below are the other members of the State, Foreign Operations Subcommittee. If you are a constituent, contact them today to express your thanks for their support of $450 Million for Peace Corps. Tell them how pleased you are with this decision and urge them to continue to be a strong voice for the Peace Corps.

House Appropriations Subcommittee for State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs:

Subcommittee Ranking Member

Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-TX)

Map of District

Email Link

Phone: 202-225-5071

Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL)

Map of District

Email Link

Phone: 202-225-0773

Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA)

Map of District