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Peace Corps/Americorps - Chile
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FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the Clinton Presidential
Library Staff.
Folder Title:
Peace Corps/Americorps - Chile
Staff Office-Individual:
Special Envoy for the Americas-Lesmez, Daniel
Original OA/ID Number:
CF 1045
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
Stack:
26
6
7
3
V
March 2, 1998
MEMORANDUM FOR MACK MCLARTY
From:
Dan Lesmez Dan
cc:
Staff Office of the Special Envoy
Subject:
Update on Chile State Visit Peace Corps Event Proposal
The Peace Corps event proposal for President Clinton's State visit to Chile appears to have been
taken off the table by the NSC communications staff, given that the President already is
scheduled to hold two Peace Corps events during his Africa trip. Therefore, they believe there
would be little value to be derived from holding a Peace Corps event in Chile, albeit the dynamic
would be different.
Nelson and I tried to make the case for holding such an event in Chile during the meeting that
Jim Steinberg and John Podesta chaired last Wednesday, but the NSC appeared to be steadfastly
resistant to the idea at the time.
The event in Chile would commemorate one of most successful programs that the Peace Corps
has had anywhere in the world, although interrupted during the Pinochet era. The Peace Corps
office is being closed in Chile, while the torch is passed on to a local entity much like Americorp
called Servicio Pais. Servicio Pais has been around since 1995 and has trained several hundred
volunteers.
The proposed event would provide the President a good opportunity to reaffirm his commitment
to increase funding for the Peace Corps, by showing that the program is intended to be a
temporary training and relief effort that will continue to train local volunteers to whom the torch
will be passed. The event also would be a good setting for the President to renew his request for
the reauthorization of Americorp through the year 2000, legislation that he will be transmitting to
Congress sometime around the middle of March. Despite strong initial opposition in Congress to
Americorp, after showing its value throughout the United States since 1993, Americorp has
gained majority bipartisan support in both chambers (good visual for the CODEL that is
expected to be there).
The Peace Corps event does not have to be the main event of the State visit, at least that is how
the NSC is touting such an event. Instead, it could be set up as a scenesetting event that
dovetails into the youth education event that currently is in the conceptual stages. We also are
looking for funding for this education event, which would be structured like a mock SOA. The
events would serve to showcase, during the State visit, the value of the Summit children at the
core of the Summit's goals; and the maturing relationship in our bilateral relations with Chile --
Peace Corps office closing would signal the increasing ability of countries in the hemisphere to
structure volunteer corps programs that put to use some of their brightest minds to address
development and poverty alleviation challenges.
02/19/98 THU 12:17 FAX 202 456 2464
SPEC. ENVOY FOR AMERICAS NEOB
002
FEB-19-98 11:16 FROM:PEACE CORP
ID:2026063110 :
PAGE
1/3
faxed to
CORPS
Ama
PEACE CORPS FAX
1961-1996/
The Office of Communications
TO:
Mack McLarty III
FAX#:
(202) 456-2464
FROM:
Arlison Osborne
ThronDEriz
Deputy Press Director
TELEPHONE
(202) 606-3610
Tighe 2 Dan
FAX#:
(202) 606-3487 or
3 Mack
(202) 606-3110
E-MAIL:
[email protected]
4 Spere
3920
Comments:
Number of Pages (including cover sheet)
If there is any problem with this transmission, please call (202) 606-3610.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF MACK MCLARTY
Counselor to the President
Special Envoy for the Americas
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
TO: MARK SCHWEiDER
FAX: 216-3012
PHONE:
FROM: Dan Lesmez
(202) 456-7580
FAX NUMBER: (202) 456-7586
SUBJECT: PEACE CORPS EXENT PROPOSAL
DATE: 2/26/98
NUMBER OF PAGES (Including Cover): 3
MESSAGES: Am per your request.
Dan.
If all pages are not received, please call 202/456-2000.
The document accompanying this facsimile transmittal sheet is intended only for the use of the individual or entity
to whom it is addressed. This message contains information which may be privileged, confidential or exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent
responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure,
dissemination, copying, or distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this communication
is strictly prohibited.
02/19/98 THU 12:17 FAX 202 456 2464
SPEC. ENVOY FOR AMERICAS +++ NEOB
5.
003
FEB-19-98 11:17 FROM:PEACE CORP
D:2026063110
PAGE
2/3
THE DIRECTOR OF THE PEACE CORPS
WASHINGTON. D.C.
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Thomas F. Mack McLarty III
Counselor to the President and Special Envoy to the
Americas
FROM:
Mark Gearan my
Peace Corps Director
DATE:
February 19, 1998
RE:
President's Trip to Chile
When President Clinton travels to Chile in April for the Summit of the Americas,
I would like to propose that he keynote Peace Corps' closing ceremony as part of
his trip. The event could be held at the 150 year-old national monument,
Municipal Theater, in Santiago, Chile as part of the Peace Corps' graduation from
the country and allow the President to celebrate our partnership with Chile and
commend their initiative for volunteerism.
The purpose of the event would be to highlight the themes of both domestic and
international volunteerism and the important roles they play in strengthening the
roots of democracy. Also, to thank Chile for hosting 2,500 Peace Corps
Volunteers since 1961, and to congratulate President Frei and the Council to
Overcome Poverty for creating Servicio Pais (Chile's AmeriCorps).
The ceremony would include President Clinton giving the keynote address and
President Frei highlighting Peace Corps achievements over the years, including
the time when his father was President (1964-70). At the end of the event,
President Clinton and President Frei could greet Peace Corps Volunteers,
returned Peace Corps Volunteers who have traveled back to Chile for the event,
and Servicio Pais.
In September 1998, Peace Corps will close its program in Chile because of the
record number of successes. These successes include the country's return to a
vibrant democracy, the enonmous economic progress, the reduction in the
number of people living in poverty, and the establishment of a national volunteer
service (Servicio Pais), many of whom have been working side-by-side with
Peace Corps Volunteers in the poorest areas of the country. Peace Corps is proud
of the tremendous contributions the Volunteers have made and the progression
that has occurred during our time there. We also look forward to a continued
02/19/98 THU 12:17 FAX 202 456 2464
SPEC. ENVOY FOR AMERICAS NEOB
1004
FEB-19-98 11:17 FROM:PEACE CORP
ID:2028063110
PAGE
3/3
relationship with Servicio Pais, which is helping the country improve their ability
to address their own basic needs
PEACE CORPS BACKGROUND:
Years in Chile:
1961-82; 1991-98
Number of Volunteers:
2,434
Volunteers Currently Serving:
51
Examples of Peace Corps Work:
A Peace Corps Volunteer initiated a project that resulted in the planting of
more than 10,000,000 trees. Today, these Monterey pines, which grow
twice as fast in Chile as in California, are the mainstay of the Chilean
export industry. He will be at the closing ceremony.
A Peace Corps Volunteer, who was a marine biologist, started fisheries
farms and taught other Volunteers how to take the technology across the
country. This revolutionized the fishing industry in Chile, including
making salmon farming one of the countries major exports.
Peace Corps Volunteers have helped create and design trail systems in
national parks, including training park rangers.
A Peace Corps Volunteer created and trained the first forest firefighters in
Chile.
Peace Corps Volunteer Dan Peterson is almost single-handedly
responsible for bringing basketball to Chile. He has gone on to an
extraordinary career as a coach all over the world, presently coaching a
professional team in the Italian premier league.
I hope this event will be given full consideration in the planning of the
President's trip. Ilook forward to discussing this with you Best wishes.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF MACK MCLARTY
Counselor to the President
Special Envoy for the Americas
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
TO: ARLISON OSBORNE
FAX: 606-3487
PHONE:
FROM: Dan Lesmez
(202) 456-7580
FAX NUMBER: (202) 456-7586
SUBJECT: Summit- Education & other initiatives.
DATE: 2/26/98
NUMBER OF PAGES (Including Cover): 4
MESSAGES: Good totalk to you.
Stay in fouch.
Dan.
If all pages are not received, please call 202/456-2000.
The document accompanying this facsimile transmittal sheet is intended only for the use of the individual or entity
to whom it is addressed. This message contains information which may be privileged, confidential or exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent
responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure,
dissemination, copying, or distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this communication
is strictly prohibited.
Services Pain
To
DL
Date
2/17
Time 940
- Amounts ago for a week
looked at our budget
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M
Patrick FN'PIERE
Peace Corps
- Nationalizing operation
of
Phone
606-3312
3
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
Datt
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message Chile Re. old colleggens
cate 2 in amount
usual Mattlenda
march USDA- 200mltine
Mexico 25,150
Operator
CLINTON LIBRARY PHOTOCOPY
AMPAD
23-021 200 SETS
EFFICIENCY
23-421 400 SETS
CARBONLESS
PHOTOCOPY
PRESERVATION
02/19/98 THU 11:20 FAX 2025652824
0.
001
PLEASE DELIVER IMMEDIATELY!
CORPORATION
FOR NATIONAL
SERVICE
TO: Dan Lesmez
OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
WITH: Special Envoy
FROM: Sandy Scott
FAX NUMBER:
(voice) 202-606-5000 ext 255
DATE/TIME:
(fax) 202-565-2794
1201 New York Avenue, NW
TOTAL PAGES: 10
Washington, DC 20525
NOTE:
Dan - Here are several documents in Pace Cerps/Amenicomps
Exceppt from 1998 state of the Union
Clips, columns and editorialen Peace Corps expansion
Wofford bio
Wafford article on Peace Corps
POTUS radio address + White House
1 pager on Corporation reauthorization.
All goes to show service, Peace Corps, Arrencarps
are core themes of Clinton presidency.
GETTING THINGS DONE.
A STREET RWICE
NATIONAL S STATEMENT
START THE L SOUTHMAN
NATIONAL V
Let me know if you
need anything else — Sandy
02/19/98 THU 11:20 FAX 2025652824
002
"We must work together, learn together, live together, serve
together. On the forge of common enterprise, Americans of all
backgrounds can hammer out a common identity. We see it today
in the United States Military, in the Peace Corps, in AmeriCorps.
Wherever people of all races and backgrounds come together in a
shared endeavor and get a fair chance, we do just fine. With
shared values and meaningful opportunities and honest
communications in citizen service, we can unite a diverse people in
freedom and mutual respect."
President Clinton
State of the Union Address, January 27, 1998
A12 SUNDAY, ANUARY 4. 1998
S
THE WASHINGTON POST
Clinton Will Seek Peace Corps Expansion
Budget Plan Envisions Sending 10,000 Volunteers Overseas in Year 2000
By Peter Baker
tion we should seize in 1998," he
world amount to barely half of the
said.
Washington Pust Stall Writer
12,000 who were serving in 1969
The Peace Corps expansion is the
when Republican Richard M. Nixon
ST. THOMAS, Virgin Islands, Jan.
latest initiative announced or leaked
took over the presidency from Dem-
3-President Clinton proposed to-
by the White House in the weeks
ocrat Lyndon B. Johnson, who nur-
day that the Peace Corps be restored
leading up to the formal release of
tured the agency started by his
to the size and stature of its glory
Clinton's 1999 budget proposal. With
predecessor in 1961.
days in the 1960s, reversing years of
spending still constrained by the
In the last two years, Peace Corps
retrenchment that forced John F.
agreement with Congress to balance
Director Mark D. Gearan has re-
Kennedy's volunteer agency to rede-
the budget by 2002, the administra-
structured the agency for tight fiscal
fine its mission for the post-Cold War
tion has been limited to touting
times and a world in which volun-
era.
mostly modest spending increases.
teers are being sent to once out-of-
In the budget going to Congress
In recent days, the administration
bounds regions after the collapse of
next month, Clinton said he will
put out the word that it would ear-
communism.
include plans to expand the corps by
mark millions more dollars for AIDS
In 1997 volunteers served for the
more than 50 percent by the year
treatment, food inspection and
first time in South Africa and Jordan,
2000, when 10,000 volunteers would
health care research.
and this year they will be introduced
BY GREG ASSOCIATED PRESS
be sent overseas, the largest number
Far more significant are a pair of
to Bangladesh, Mozambique and
President Clinton leans on golfing partner Louis Bared while stretching a leg.
since 1969. Under his plan, the agen-
other social program expansions en-
Georgia. On the other hand, Gearan
E/c Peus, right, joined them at the Mahogany Run Golf Course on St. Thomas.
cy's budget would rise by $48 mil-
visioned by Clinton-one to restore
has ended operations in 12 other
lion, or 22 percent, to $270 million.
food stamps for many legal immi-
countries, such as Costa Rica and
"In a world where we're more and
grants cut off by the 1996 welfare
Fiji, that may no longer need as
er Newt Gingrich (R-Ga) said she
president this year will be approval of
more affected by what happens be-
overhaul law, the other to extend
much help, even as he trimmed
had not spoken to her boss about the
the settlement worked out between
yourd our borders, we have to work
Medicare health benefits to retirees
headquarters spending by 11 per-
plan and could not comment. Other
the tobacco industry and states and
harder to overcome the divisions
ages 62 to 64 who pay a monthly fee.
cent and reduced medical costs by
key GOP legislators could not be
others suing cigarette makers.)
that undermine the integrity and
Like the food stamp, Medicare
14 percent.
reached, but Gearan solicited en-
Even as his radio address was
quality of life around the world, as
and other initiatives in the 1999
Gearan said in an interview that he
dorsements from Republicans who
broadcast, Clinton shied away from
well as here at home," Clinton said in
budget, the Peace Corps increase
hopes the changes will give him
once served themselves-Reps.
much further official business today,
his weekly radio address, taped here
could appeal the most to liberal
greater credibility to win bipartisan
Christopher Shays of Connecticut
spending his day here on the golf
during his Caribbean vacation.
Democrats who have been disap-
support in Congress for Clinton's
and James T. Walsh of New York.
course. Plans for a sailing outing
02/19/98 THU 11:20 FAX 2025652824
"Strengthening the Peace Corps,
pointed that the program has not
proposal. "Now is the right time
[Meanwhile, White House spokes-
appeared out because of strong
giving more Americans opportuni-
been a higher priority over the past
because the Peace Corps has its own
man Michael McCurry said today on
winds and choppy waters. The first
ties to serve in humanity's cause, is
three decades. The 6,500 volunteers
house in order," Gearan said.
CNN's "Evans and Novak" that an-
family planned to return to Washing-
both an opportunity and an obliga-
working in 85 countries around the
A spokeswoman for House Sperk-
other congressional priority for the
ton on Sunday.
02/19/98 THU 11:22 FAX 2025652824
004
THE WASHINGTON POST
R
WEDNESDAY. JANUARY 14. 1998 A19
David S. Broder
Soviet republic of Georgia, in Bangla-
Gearan has used his influence
desh and in Mozambique. Last year.
with Clinton to set the Peace Corps
at the request of President Nelson
on its upward trajectory. but he has
The Peace
Mandela, it began working in South
had many allies. "When heads of
Africa.
state and foreign ministers come to
Later this week, a new contingent
Washington, many of them come by
of 41 volunteers will leave Atlanta for
here to thank us," Gearan said.
Corps:
South Africa, after a sendoff from
"Some of them, in their youth, were
Gearan, Franklin Sonn, South Afri-
taught by Peace Corps volunteers."
ca's ambassador to Washington, and
The returned volunteers, now
Winner
Sargent Shriver. the first director of
numbering 150,000, form a powerful
the Peace Corps.
grass-roots lobby. On Capitol Hill,
One of those volunteers is Jason
the support is bipartisan. Georgia
Carter, a recent graduate of Duke
Republican Sen. Paul Coverdell, who
All Around
University and the grandson of for-
ran the Peace Corps during much of
mer president Jimmy Carter. The
the Bush administration, told the
Peace Corps is of course a Carter
Atlanta Journal-Constitution he is
Credit President Clinton for at
family tradition. Jason's great-grand-
enthusiastic about Clinton's expan-
least one initiative that has received
mother, Miss Lillian, served as a
sion plans. "I never met an ambassa-
volunteer nurse in India in the late
dor
warm praise in both parties and
of another government that
reflects well on this nation around
1960s, when she was well along in
had been the beneficiary of this
the world.
years.
program who did not view it as the
Young Carter tells me he asked
most successful of its kind." Similar
In his budget for next year, Clinton
will ask for a substantial increase in
for an African assignment after see-
support has come from six other
funds for the Peace Corps, a legacy
ing the devastation in Liberia on a
legislators-three Democrats and
of the idealistic 1960s that has taken
visit with his grandfather and calcu-
three Republicans-who were Peace
on fresh significance in this end-of-
lating that "I may never have another
Corps volunteers.
the-century environment.
chance" to explore what can be done
This one is a winner all around.
The president has announced he
to help on that continent. But, at 22,
will seek a 21 percent boost in Peace
he also sees the rewards for himself.
Corps funds-$48 million-as the
"Even if you go to Duke," he said, "oΓ
first stage in increasing the number
maybe to make up for going to Duke,
of Americans in its overseas assign-
you want a new way of going out to
look at the world. Our culture is
ments to 10,000 by the end of the
decade. Today there are roughly
stampeding, and this may be a way to
6,600 volunteers working in schools,
see what parts you can take at face
clinics. nascent businesses and help-
value and what parts you need to
ing on agricultural and environmen-
reject."
tal projects in 85 countries.
Gearan, an understated Boston
They may be the best ambassa-
Irishman, asked for the Peace Corps
dors this country has ever had.
assignment after carrying lots of
water for Clinton, first as director of
John Kennedy launched the Peace
the Democratic Governors' Associa-
Corps in 1961. borrowing the idea
from Hubert Humphrey, and in its
tion, then as a 1992 campaign press
spokesman and finally as White
first heady years it sent as many as
House communications director dur-
15,000 young Americans to remote
villages in the Third World. But it
ing the toughest parts of the first
term.
languished in the go-go 1980s. when
barely one-third that many volun-
One of the least cynical politicians
I have known, Gearan said the other
teers were in the field at any time.
Today, happily, the supply of
day, "It was a great honor to work in
the White House, but it is really
would-be Peace Corps workers is
increasing at the same time that
inspiring to be in this job and see the
worldwide demand is on the rise.
very tangible differences our volun-
Last year, according to Director
teers are making.
Mark Gearan. more than 150,000
"In Botswana," he said, "I was with
people contacted Peace Corps offic-
one of our volunteers, a 64-year-old
es inquiring about slots-up 40 per-
grandmother who has helped a coop-
cent from 1994.
erative of women weavers triple their
The end of the Cold War and the
income in the past year. She's living
in a thatched-roof hut filled with
spread of democracy in previously
authoritarian countries have opened
drawings by her nine grandchil-
dren."
new opportunities and responsibili-
ties for the Peace Corps. This year, it
will start programs in the former
02/19/98 THU 11:23 FAX 2025652824
005
A10
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 1998
WASHINGTON EDITION ANGELES TIMES
LOS ANGELES TIMES EDITORIALS
MARK H. WILLES, Publisher
DONALD F. WRIGHT, President and Chief Executive Officer
MICHAEL PARKS, Editor and Senior Vice President
JANET CLAYTON, Editor of the Editorial Pages and Vice President
Expand the Peace Corps
When John F. Kennedy created the Peace
self-reliance and civic responsibility. Ex-
Corps in 1961, it was embraced by Americans as
volunteers enter public life and do domestic
a reflection of their national idealism. It took
volunteer work at higher than average rates.
hold strongly and survived the end of the Cold
True, the Peace Corps can't solve the world's
War and federal budget-choppers, diminished
problems. But on a budget of just $222 million,
but intact. Now President Clinton has proposed
which Clinton would raise to $270 million in
an expansion to 10,000 volunteers, well below
fiscal 1999, it presents the best face of this
its peak of 15,000 but a healthy increase from
nation to the rest of the world. Volunteers are
the current 6,600. It's an idea with high rewards
still generally in their 20s (there is no upper age
for low cost.
limit), though job skills requiring experience,
Peace Corps volunteers nowadays travel to
such as nursing, are more valued than they
the former Soviet Union and other former
were at the beginning.
Eastern Bloc nations as well as Africa, Asia and
Clinton's goal, 10,000 volunteers, is about
Latin America. They are about to enter South
right. In the early years. fast expansion left
Africa, with a project to improve science and
some volunteers without adequate jobs, and it
math teaching. They work on small business
was a scramble to find them all useful slots.
formation, nutrition, maternal health, school-
There's no better time to strengthen the
ing and more. Worthy projects, but the biggest
Peace Corps than now, with the U.S. buoyed by
dividend may be America's-citizens who
optimism. Share that outlook with the world, at
return home with a sense of internationalism,
a bargain price.
02/19/98 THU 11:23 FAX 2025652824
006
HARRIS WOFFORD
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL SERVICE
Head of the Corporation for National Service since the fall of 1995, Harris Wofford has
dedicated much of his career to the goal of making citizen service a common expectation and
experience for all Americans. As a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania from 1991 to 1994, he
played a key role in both crafting and working to pass the trailblazing legislation that created
the Corporation with broad bi-partisan support.
Wofford's organizing role in The Presidents' Summit for America's Future was in keeping
with that bi-partisan spirit. A national service summit was the brainchild of former
Michigan Governor George Romney, who shared his vision with Wofford shortly after
Wofford was named as the Corporation's CEO. Wofford and Points of Light Foundation
President Bob Goodwin agreed to enlist their organizations in initiating the unprecedented
meeting. What has become the Presidents' Summit was born. Romney did not live to see the
realization of his dream, but he died knowing that the Summit would go forward.
Since helping to launch the Peace Corps in 1961 under the Kennedy Administration,
Wofford has been in the forefront of the nation's service movement. In the 1970s, he formed
and chaired a panel to study the idea of national service, which in 1979 produced the
landmark report Youth and the Needs of the Nation. In 1987, as Pennsylvania's Secretary
of Labor and Industry, he established and led Governor Robert Casey's Office of Citizen
Service, which promoted school-based service-learning and youth corps, and managed the
Pennsylvania Conservation Corps.
While in Governor Casey's cabinet, Wofford worked with then-Arkansas Governor Bill
Clinton and a bi-partisan working group of the National Governors Association, along with a
group of Senators, to develop what would become the National and Community Service Act
of 1990, signed into law by President Bush. In 1991, as a newly-elected Senator, Wofford
worked with then-Minority Leader Bob Dole to secure passage of the National Civilian
Community Corps, now an integral part of AmeriCorps. In 1993, then-Senator Wofford
worked with President Clinton's task force, headed by Eli Segal, on both drafting and
passing the National and Community Service Trust Act, which created AmeriCorps and the
Corporation for National Service.
Wofford played a key role in the civil rights movement with Dr. Martin Luther King. Under
President Eisenhower, he was counsel to the Rev. Theodore Hesburgh of Notre Dame on the
first U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. In the Kennedy years, he was a Special Assistant to
the President and chaired the subcabinet group on civil rights.
While on the White House staff, Wofford helped Sargent Shriver plan and organize the
Peace Corps; in 1962, he became the Peace Corps' Special Representative to Africa and
director of its large Ethiopia program. In the Johnson Administration, he took on the post of
Peace Corps Associate Director.
Wofford has been both a law professor and president of two colleges, the State
University of New York at Old Westbury and of Bryn Mawr College. An alumnus of the
University of Chicago, (B.A., 1948) and both Howard University and Yale Law Schools
(J.D., 1954), he has also practiced law and authored several books, including Of
Kennedy and Kings. He and his late wife Clare, with whom he co-wrote the book India
Afire, have three children and four grandchildren.
April 22, 1997
02/19/98 THU 11:24 FAX 2025652824
007
SERVING HERE AT HOME
AS FEDERAL SERVICES SHRINK, ONE OF PEACE CORPS' CHIEF ARCHITECTS
ASKS YOUR SUPPORT FOR AMERICORPS AND OTHER DOMESTIC
PROJECTS "GETTING THINGS DONE."
by Harris Wolford
county's second graders.
Back in the winter of 1961.
From forest fires in
when Sargent Shriver assembled
Idaho and earthquakes
his task force to help turn the
in California. to the
idea of a Peace Corps into a
AmeriCarps
bombing in Oklahoma City and
reality, he knew it would only
floods all over the United States,
have one chance to work. We
AmeriCorps members have
needed to create a program that
helped thousands of people
Volunteers in Service to America
of full-time service. members
was bold enough to capture the
recover from disasters, and have
have served in struggling com-
earn a modest living allowance
public's imagination and practi-
helped organize and lead thou-
municies across the United
and an education award of
cal enough to have a real impact
sands of other volunteers offer-
States. While the growth of
$4,725 to help pay for college
on the problems of the develop-
ing to serve alongside.
VISTA was blocked by the diver-
or pay back student loans.
ing world.
sion of government resources to
AmeriCorps is often called the
"Getung things done" is even
The Peace Corps did capture the
the Viemam War and the aban-
"domestic Peace Corps". In-
more important as government
imagination of the American
donment of the War on Poverty,
deed. in drafting the national
programs dealing with our most
people-and people in many
a diverse array of service pro-
service bill, we often turned to
serious social problems are cut
other countries. More than
grams began to grow up from
the experience of the Peace
back. Those problems are not
140,000 volunteers have con-
the grassroots: conservation
Corps for guidance. Above all.
diminishing but continue to
cributed to the education. health
corps, urban youch corps. and
the Peace Corps showed how to
mount. So the country needs
and environment of millions of
service opportunities generated
combine the volunteer spirit
new solutions and ways to act.
people around the world. Be-
by high schools and colleges,
with full-time stipended service,
National service is a proven.
yond the concrete gains. the
businesses, churches and civic
and it set the precedent for
strong response. It goes beyond
Peace Corps has fostered good-
organizations.
government playing a vital role
government to release the power
will and increased the under-
in creating opportunities for
of the people. It breaks out of
standing of America. And Peace
The latest offspring of this
citizens to serve.
bureaucracy to work directly in
movement is AmeriCorps, the
Corps volunteers continue to
che independent sector with
quantum leap in national service
AmeriCorps' motto is "Getting
make a difference long after they
volunteer groups. It shifts
return home, using the skills
created by Congress and Presi-
Things Done", and that focus on
power to the local level where
dent Clinton in 1993. which in
results has paid off in better
they learned abroad to solve
people best know the problems-
turn was built on the first Na-
schools. safer streets. healthier
problems at home.
and their solutions.
tional Service Act. passed by
children and a cleaner environ-
The number of volunteers
President Bush in 1990. Ameri-
ment:
AmeriCorps is part of a larger
abroad at any one time has
Corps combines VISTA with a
family of programs overseen by
In Kansas City, Missouri,
remained small -far smaller than
larger decentralized system of
the Corporation for National
AmeriCorps members
what John Kennedy had hoped.
grants to over 400 diverse local
Service. That family includes
helped close 44 crack
But another high hope at the
and national programs.
students in elementary. second-
houses and push out drug deal-
creation is at long last beginning
ary and high schools and col-
Now in its second year, some
ers from a 173 block commu-
to be realized. When Kennedy
leges and universities who are
sent the first volunteers forth to
25,000 AmeriCorps members
nity-and brought in more than
applying their skills to help solve
Asia, Africa and Latin America,
are serving in over 1,200 com-
3,000 community volunteers to
community problems and im-
municies across the United
keep the neighborhood clean
he said that someday the logic of
prove their learning through
States. They tutor children.
and safe.
the idea would bring it home to
service. It includes a half million
build homes. fight crime, clean
America.
Twenty AmeriCorps
older Americans who put their
streams and do hundreds of
members serving in
talents and experience to work
In 1965, VISTA was the first
other things to improve educa-
rural Simpson County.
in the Senior Corps-Foster
step. also planned by Sargent
don and make our communities
Kentucky, helped raise the read-
Grandparents, Senior Compan-
Shriver. For over 30 years.
stronger. In exchange for a year
ing levels of nearly half the
ions and the Retired and Senior
three/one/sixty-one
5
02/19/98 THU 11:24 FAX 2025652824
008
"To BRING SERVICE HOME ON THE SCALE
OUR COUNTRY NEEDS WILL REQUIRE MUCH
Volunteer Program.
MORE THAN PASSING A LAW OR BUILDING ANY
priority of an AmeriCorps mem-
National service, in all its forms,
SINGLE PROGRAM. IT WILL TAKE A REBIRTH
ber bending over a torn book
can have a profound impact on
and a tired second grader.
OF CIVIC PARTICIPATION INVOLVING MILLIONS
every American community. Yet
OF AMERICANS. WHO BETTER TO LEAD
To bring service home on the
for all that is already getting
THE WAY THAN THE 140,000 VETERANS
scale our country needs will
done, national service remains a
OF THE PEACE CORPS?"
require much more than passing
well-kept secret. Service is a
a law or building any single
story waiting to be told.
program. It will take a rebirth of
A key part of this story is how
the Philadelphia Youth Service
citizen service, one essential pre-
civic parricipation involving
full-time national service ex-
Corps. When I asked him why
condition is establishing national
millions of Americans. Who
pands traditional part-time
he enlisted in the Corps, he said:
service as a non-partisan institu-
better to lead the way than the
volunteering Because most
"Look. All my life people had
tion in which the American
140,000 veterans of the Peace
AmeriCorps members serve full
been coming to help me. I got
people can all take pride, as they
Corps?
time, they help non-profit orga-
tired of people doing good
came to do with the Civilian
Many of you are, of course,
nizations enlist and use a larger
against me. For the first time,
Conservation Corps and the
already involved in service at
number of occasional volunteers.
this Corps asked me to do some
Peace Corps.
home. Right here at the Corpo-
A case in point: two dozen
good."
It took a while for the Peace
ration for National Service. we
AmeriCorps members serving
It's the same point made by one
Corps to achieve this status.
have more than 40 Peace Corps
with Miami Habitat for Human-
of the first Peace Corps volun-
Initially it was ridiculed as the
alumni working in our head-
ity recruited and worked along-
teers who was probed as to why
"kiddie corps" by both President
quarters. and dozens more serve
side over 6,400 community
he and his colleagues of the
Eisenhower and candidate
in the field or as leaders of
volunteers to build 50 new
"silent generation" had re-
Nixon. But by the time Nixon
AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps
homes for working families.
sponded so well to the Peace
became President. the Peace
VISTA programs, and in service-
Another part of this story that
Corps. He said, "Nobody ever
Corps stood on solid ground.
learning throughout the country.
needs telling is the impact that
asked me to do anything unself-
The Peace Corps' resilience over
You have answered the call once
national service is having on our
ish, patriotic or for the common
the years is due in good part to
before. and you understand as
young-not just the young serv-
good before. Kennedy asked."
its bi-partisan support. which
well as anyone the transforming
ing in our programs. but the
It's time for us to ask again. and
Loret Ruppe maintained so well
power of service. So help us
young who are being served.
under fire in the 1980s.
find the ways and means to ask
bring the Peace Corps idea home
A majority of AmeriCorps as-
effectively in a new era, in a
The essence of service is beyond
on a scale commensurate with
signments are aimed at helping
time of deep cynicism when no
politics. It's about helping
the nation's problems. There are
young people. Thousands serve
political leader's words can
others. Political advantage is the
many ways to ger involved.
as mentors and tutors. Ameri-
resonate with the power of per-
last thing on the mind of a Peace
Serve with a local program.
Corps members organize after-
suasion Kennedy had.
Corps volunteer in a school in
Lend your expertise to service
school programs. teach violence-
Erioria. The next election isn't a
To unleash the full power of
projects in need. Be a mentor to
and drug-prevention classes. and
a croubled teen. More than 10
help kids get to school safely.
Harris Wofford is the chief executive
million mentors are needed
They are responsible role models
officer of the Corporation for Na-
today in America. Work with
for a generation that needs real
tional Service. He was an early civil
the alumni of AmeriCorps to
heroes.
rights leader and advisor to John
build a large network of action
Kennedy's presidential campaign.
and support. Together the
But probably the most important
He helped Sargent Shriver plan and
hundreds of thousands of veter-
contribution of this movement is
organize the Peace Corps, and in
ans of the Peace Corps and of
not how we serve youth. but
1962 he became the agency's special
National Service could take the
how we challenge the young to
representative to Africa and director of
lead in finding and organizing
serve. That is the real power of
the Ethiopia program. He returned
those mentors.
this idea. National service looks
to Washington in 1964 to become
Our aim must be to weave ser-
at young people as resources,
Shriver's associate director and
not as problems; as opportuni-
vice into the fabric of everyday
remains one of America's most
des, not dangers.
life, to make service the com-
impassioned champions of community
mon expectation and experience
The case for this was put to me a
service. He served as president of
of every American. We've
few years ago by a young high
Bryn Mawr and the College at Old
come a long way in this direc-
school dropout in Philadelphia.
Westbury at State University of New
tion but we have a much longer
He had left a street gang to join
York, and was elected to the U.S.
way to go.
Senate from Pennsylvania in 1991.
6
three/one/sixty-one
02/19/98 THU 11:25 FAX 2025652824
J.
009
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
Saturday, November 29, 1997
RADIO ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT
TO THE NATION
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This week, millions of Americans have gathered with
family and friends to share Thanksgiving. Much has changed for America since George
Washington first proclaimed a day of thanksgiving for our new nation in 1789. But the
Thanksgiving spirit -- sharing our good fortune with others, coming together to meet our
common challenges -- that is as important as ever. That's why we must keep that spirit alive
throughout the year through citizen service.
Citizen service must be at the heart of our efforts to prepare America for the 21st century,
as we work to guarantee all Americans the opportunity and conditions to make the most of their
own lives and to help those who need and deserve it with a hand up. My administration's most
important contribution to citizen service is AmeriCorps, our national service program that
already has given more than 100,000 young Americans the opportunity to serve our country and
earn money for a college education. In community after community, AmeriCorps members have
proved that service can help us meet our most pressing social needs.
For example, in Simpson County, Kentucky, AmeriCorps members helped 2nd graders
jump three grade levels in reading. In boys and girls clubs all across the country, AmeriCorps
members are mentors for at-risk young people. Habitat For Humanity relies upon AmeriCorps
members to bring in more volunteers and build more houses. In communities beset by floods,
tornadoes and hurricanes, AmeriCorps members have helped to rebuild homes and restore hope.
Now, AmeriCorps members are mobilizing thousands and thousands of college students
from 800 campuses in our America Reads program, to make sure that all our young people can
read independently by the 3rd grade. AmeriCorps brings people of every background together to
work toward common goals. And after years of partisan fighting over it, I'm pleased that
Congress now seems ready to come together to support AmeriCorps.
Today, I'm proposing legislation to give more Americans the chance to serve by
strengthening AmeriCorps and our student and senior citizen service programs and extending
them for five years. This legislation reflects the spirit of the President's Summit on Service,
where last spring thousands of Americans pledged to give our children the support they need to
make the most of their lives. As General Colin Powell reported this week, we've made a lot of
progress since the Summit with more AmeriCorps members, more reading tutors for our children
through America Reads, more mentoring programs for young people, more partnerships with
private businesses and community groups. At Thanksgiving, I want to thank especially the
02/19/98 THU 11:26 FAX 2025652824
J.
010
citizens and businesses who have worked with us to ensure that our nation's surplus food helps to
feed the hungry, not fill up dumpsters.
Now we must create more opportunities for people to serve all year long and, through
service, to reach out to one another across the lines that divide us. In honor of the spirit of citizen
service embodied in the life of Martin Luther King Jr., the Congress has designated the Martin
Luther King holiday as a day of national service. And I'm pleased to announce that our
Corporation for National Service has awarded 73 grants to communities from Boston to Los
Angeles, to help make this day of service a resounding success. Dr. King once said that,
"Everybody can be great because anybody can serve -- you only need a heart full of grace and a
soul generated by love."
As we look forward to a joyous holiday season, let us pledge to live up to those words by
making citizen service a part of our lives every day.
Thanks for listening.
02/19/98 THU 11:26 FAX 2025652824
011
President Proposes Plan to Reauthorize AmeriCorps and
Announces Grants for Service on Martin Luther King Day
Saturday, November 29, 1997
President Releases Proposal to Reauthorize AmeriCorps
Today in his weekly radio address, President Clinton proposed legislation to improve and extend
the AmeriCorps program into the next century. The legislation would also reauthorize the other
national service programs run by the Corporation for National Service - -- Learn and Serve
America and the National Senior Service Corps.
The proposal announced by the President would extend all three programs for the next five years,
building on national service's successful track record and allowing millions more Americans to
serve. It will give states and community organizations more flexibility to administer service
programs and strengthen partnerships with traditional volunteer organizations. The President
urged Congress to make passage of this legislation a priority next year.
The President came into office with a vision of a national service program that would offer young
people the chance to serve our nation in exchange for increased access to higher education.
Today. that program - AmeriCorps -- is a great success. Since 1993, more than 100,000 people
have enrolled in AmeriCorps. All who complete a term of full-time service are eligible for an
education award of $4,725. Thousands of communities across America have seen that national
service helps them meet vital needs in education, public safety, the environment, and other human
needs. AmeriCorps also increases the reach of volunteers because, on average, AmeriCorps
members recruit and train at least 12 unpaid volunteers.
In addition to AmeriCorps, national service includes programs for students and seniors. Learn
and Serve America supports service-learning programs involving more than a million students in
K-12 schools and colleges and universities. Students perform service in their communities that is
linked to what they are learning in school. The National Senior Service Corps taps the experience
of more than half a million older Americans to help solve community problems through the
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), the Senior Companions Program, the Foster
Grandparents Program, and the new Seniors for Schools initiative.
Grants to Communities for Day of Service on Martin Luther King Holiday
The President also announced that this week the Corporation for National Service awarded more
than 70 grants to communities to organize service events on Martin Luther King Day. Our
newest holiday has a growing tradition of service, springing from Dr. King's deep belief in
service. In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Holiday as a day of service.
Around the country, more and more communities are helping to make Martin Luther King Day
into a day of service - "a day on, not a day off" -- by organizing service activities for January 19.
As Dr. King said, "Everybody can be great because anybody can serve."
Update since Philadelphia Service Summit
The President also noted progress since the Presidents' service summit in April, when
corporations, civic and educational organizations, and government entities committed to new
action for children and youth. The Administration has followed up with more AmeriCorps
scholarships, reading tutors for children through the America Reads initiative, mentoring efforts
by federal agencies, new food recovery efforts, and the new $24 billion Children's Health
Insurance Program signed into law this summer, which will give up to five million children who
are now without access to health insurance a healthy start.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF MACK MCLARTY
Counselor to the President
Special Envoy for the Americas
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
TO: SANDY Scott
FAX: 565-2824
PHONE:
FROM: Dan Lesmez
(202) 456-7580
FAX NUMBER: (202) 456-7586
SUBJECT: Mark Gearan's memo
DATE: 2/19/98
NUMBER OF PAGES (Including Cover): 3
MESSAGES: Talk to you sorn.
Pan.
If all pages are not received, please call 202/456-2000.
The document accompanying this facsimile transmittal sheet is intended only for the use of the individual or entity
to whom it is addressed. This message contains information which may be privileged, confidential or exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent
responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure,
dissemination, copying, or distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this communication
is strictly prohibited.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF MACK MCLARTY
Counselor to the President
Special Envoy for the Americas
FAX TRANSMITTAL SHEET
TO: SANDY SCOTT
FAX: 565-2824
PHONE:
FROM: Dan Lesmez
(202) 456-7580
FAX NUMBER: (202) 456-7586
SUBJECT: CHILE NATIONAL SERVICE CORPS
DATE: 2/18/98
NUMBER OF PAGES (Including Cover): 5
MESSAGES: Good falking to you.
Let's roll--
Dan.
If all pages are not received, please call 202/456-2000.
The document accompanying this facsimile transmittal sheet is intended only for the use of the individual or entity
to whom it is addressed. This message contains information which may be privileged, confidential or exempt from
disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent
responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure,
dissemination, copying, or distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on the contents of this communication
is strictly prohibited.
February 18, 1998
MEMORANDUM FOR MACK MCLARTY
From:
Dan Lesmez Dan.
cc:
Staff Office of the Special Envoy
Subject:
Chile State Visit Peace Corps Event Proposal
The Peace Corps is proposing an event during President Clinton's State visit to Chile to
commemorate both the closing of the U.S. Peace Corps Office in Chile and the establishment of
Chile's version of an AMERICORP (national volunteer corps) program. Servicio Pais and
REDESOL are the names of the two Chilean institutions that are taking over the implementation
of many of the Peace Corps development programs in some of Chile's poorer municipalities.
Servicio Pais, initiated in 1995, provides volunteer opportunities for recent college graduates,
while REDESOL, through a network of twelve non-governmental organizations, provides similar
opportunities for graduate students to provide them with practical experience for completing their
thesis.
This Peace Corps proposal for a commemoration event during the State visit has merit. While
Chile's program is not a replica of our Peace Corps program, as it is currently implemented only
nationally and not internationally, it does replicate one of President Clinton's highest policy
initiatives in the U.S. -- AMERICORP and its volunteer corps. It could provide good visuals
involving both Peace Corps and AMERICORP volunteers, as well as Chilean volunteers. The
event would provide an opportunity for President Clinton and President Frei to highlight the
importance of volunteerism to other hemispheric leaders not only as a development tool, but also
as a way to better educate their college graduates about the needs of the poor and how to address
those needs.
Attached is the proposal that the Peace Corps has drafted for this event opportunity. The second
page of their proposal includes logistical information and a possible framework for holding such
an event. Assuming that there is interest in further exploring this opportunity, I would suggest
that you invite Mark Gearan to come to your office to elaborate on their proposal within the next
two weeks. I have a good contact there, SO I could help set up the meeting.
02/17/98 TUE 20:50 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
002
The Peace Corps sponsored a delegation of seven Chileans for a week long visit
from September 29 to October 3, 1997 in Washington, DC. The visit provided an
opportunity for representatives of Chile's national public service initiatives to
learn about Peace Corps and Americorps and to meet with officials at multilateral
banks and international development organizations regarding the development of
national voluntary service. Three members of the delegation were executive
managers of Servicio Pais, Chile's national volunteer corps; two were from
REDESOL, an NGO-sponsored volunteer program that takes international
volunteers to work locally in Chile; one represented the National Institute for
Youth; and another was from Chile Barrio, an urban community development
organization. The visit was part of Peace Corps' effort to foster the development of
national voluntary organizations and to provide opportunities for training in this
area.
Chile has two initiatives for national public service. Servicio Pais, initiated in
1995, is a government organization that provides opportunities for recent college
graduates to serve for one year or more in the poorest municipalities of the
country. In 1997, 141 young Chilean professionals were serving in 70
municipalities in Chile. REDESOL is an initiative led by a group of 12 non-
governmental organizations to attract students who have not completed their
university degrees, who must do a practicum and write a thesis in order to
graduate. The project places students with other non-governmental organizations
working directly with the poor for a period of one year.
The Peace Corps in Chile first began its association with Servicio Pais in 1995, the
year of its inception. In 1996 and 1997, 12-15 Servicio Pais volunteers participated
in a Peace Corps In-Service Training alongside Peace Corps Volunteers and their
host country national supervisors from the poorest municipalities in all of Chile.
Another conference will be held this year during which an equal number of
Servicio Pais volunteers and Peace Corps Volunteers will participate in another
In-Service training on municipal management, again with host country national
supervisors as well as local Mayors. Concurrent with attending training sessions,
several Servicio Pais volunteers have been working in direct conjunction with
Peace Corps volunteers in municipalities in need.
The Peace Corps is now graduating from Chile. In preparation for the closing
ceremony, Peace Corps would like to recognize the work of Servicio Pais and
commend Chile on the creation of its national volunteer organization, at the same
time acknowledging Peace Corps' assistance and support of such a creation. The
following is the projected itinerary for the ceremony at which we are requesting
President Clinton's attendance:
02/17/98 TUE 20:51 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
4.
003
CEREMONY
Max one hour at the Municipal Theater, a beautiful 150 year-old national
monument with a capacity of 1500.
[PC=Peace Corps, PCV= Peace Corps Volunteer, SP=Servicio Pais]
POTUS FOCUS
1. Thank Chile for hosting more than 2500 PCVs since 1961.
2. Congratulate Pres. Frei and the Council to Overcome Poverty for creating
Servicio Pais (Chile's VISTA or AMERICORPS) while making reference to
John Kennedy.
3. Town Forum on the themes of Volunteerism, non-governmental
organizations and community associations, and the important roles they
play in strenghtening the roots of democracy.
AUDIENCE
PCVs, many RPCVs (Returned PCVs) who will return for the event, several
hundred ex-Servicio Pais volunteers as well as the current class who will be
in training, Chilean NGOs and local individuals who have had prior
involvement with PCVs and GOC officials. (The Embassy believes it will be
able to fill the hall without difficulty.
DELIVERABLES
Continue a collaboration between PC and SP by:
1. Facilitating visits to Chile of delegations from other countries where PC is
active in order to observe first hand the SP experience.
2. Facilitating visits by SP staff to other Latin American countries where PC is
active in order to share the concept of national volunteer service for
young professionals
3. Identifying skill needs and sites and offering temporary office space in PC
countries for SP if and when they decide to expand outside of Chile.
02/17/98 TUE 20:50 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
001
PEACE CORPS
PEACE CORPS
WASHINGTON
SOUTH AMERICA DESK
DATE:
February 17, 1998
PAGES (INCLUDING COVER): 3
TO:
Mr. Daniel Lesmez, Policy Advisor
FAX:
(202) 456-7586
to the Special Envoy for the Americas
PHONE:
(202) 456-7580
FROM
Patrick Fn'Piere, Regional Director
FAX:
202-606-3524
Inter-America & Pacific Region
PHONE: 202-606-3198
Dear Mr. Lesmez:
Thank you for taking the time to read the following preliminary proposal for the
Peace Corps/Chile's closing ceremony to be held in Santiago this April. I apologize
for the delay in submission.
The following pages outline our preliminary proposal for a Peace Corps closing
ceremony, especially as it pertains to the success of Chile's newly created national
volunteer system, Servicio Pais.
Thank you for your attention. Best regards.
PFP/kc
1
02/17/98 TUE 20:50 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
I
002
The Peace Corps sponsored a delegation of seven Chileans for a week long visit
from September 29 to October 3, 1997 in Washington, DC. The visit provided an
opportunity for representatives of Chile's national public service initiatives to
learn about Peace Corps and Americorps and to meet with officials at multilateral
banks and international development organizations regarding the development of
national voluntary service. Three members of the delegation were executive
managers of Servicio Pais, Chile's national volunteer corps; two were from
REDESOL, an NGO-sponsored volunteer program that takes international
volunteers to work locally in Chile; one represented the National Institute for
Youth; and another was from Chile Barrio, an urban community development
organization. The visit was part of Peace Corps' effort to foster the development of
national voluntary organizations and to provide opportunities for training in this
area.
Chile has two initiatives for national public service. Servicio Pais, initiated in
1995, is a government organization that provides opportunities for recent college
graduates to serve for one year or more in the poorest municipalities of the
country. In 1997, 141 young Chilean professionals were serving in 70
municipalities in Chile. REDESOL is an initiative led by a group of 12 non-
governmental organizations to attract students who have not completed their
university degrees, who must do a practicum and write a thesis in order to
graduate. The project places students with other non-governmental organizations
working directly with the poor for a period of one year.
The Peace Corps in Chile first began its association with Servicio Pais in 1995, the
year of its inception. In 1996 and 1997, 12-15 Servicio Pais volunteers participated
in a Peace Corps In-Service Training alongside Peace Corps Volunteers and their
host country national supervisors from the poorest municipalities in all of Chile.
Another conference will be held this year during which an equal number of
Servicio Pais volunteers and Peace Corps Volunteers will participate in another
In-Service training on municipal management, again with host country national
supervisors as well as local Mayors. Concurrent with attending training sessions,
several Servicio Pais volunteers have been working in direct conjunction with
Peace Corps volunteers in municipalities in need.
The Peace Corps is now graduating from Chile. In preparation for the closing
ceremony, Peace Corps would like to recognize the work of Servicio Pais and
commend Chile on the creation of its national volunteer organization, at the same
time acknowledging Peace Corps' assistance and support of such a creation. The
following is the projected itinerary for the ceremony at which we are requesting
President Clinton's attendance:
02/17/98 TUE 20:51 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
003
CEREMONY
Max one hour at the Municipal Theater, a beautiful 150 year-old national
monument with a capacity of 1500.
[PC=Peace Corps, PCV= Peace Corps Volunteer, SP=Servicio Pais]
POTUS FOCUS
1. Thank Chile for hosting more than 2500 PCVs since 1961.
2. Congratulate Pres. Frei and the Council to Overcome Poverty for creating
Servicio Pais (Chile's VISTA or AMERICORPS) while making reference to
John Kennedy.
3. Town Forum on the themes of Volunteerism, non-governmental
organizations and community associations, and the important roles they
play in strenghtening the roots of democracy.
AUDIENCE
PCVs, many RPCVs (Returned PCVs) who will return for the event, several
hundred ex-Servicio Pais volunteers as well as the current class who will be
in training, Chilean NGOs and local individuals who have had prior
involvement with PCVs and GOC officials. (The Embassy believes it will be
able to fill the hall without difficulty.
DELIVERABLES
Continue a collaboration between PC and SP by:
1. Facilitating visits to Chile of delegations from other countries where PC is
active in order to observe first hand the SP experience.
2. Facilitating visits by SP staff to other Latin American countries where PC is
active in order to share the concept of national volunteer service for
young professionals
3. Identifying skill needs and sites and offering temporary office space in PC
countries for SP if and when they decide to expand outside of Chile.
02/17/98 TUE 20:50 FAX 202 606 3524
Peace Corps IAP Region
J.
001
PEACE CORPS
PEACE CORPS
WASHINGTON
SOUTH AMERICA DESK
DATE:
February 17, 1998
PAGES (INCLUDING COVER): 3
TO:
Mr. Daniel Lesmez, Policy Advisor
FAX:
(202) 456-7586
to the Special Envoy for the Americas
PHONE:
(202) 456-7580
FROM
Patrick Fn'Piere, Regional Director
FAX:
202-606-3524
Inter-America & Pacific Region
PHONE: 202-606-3198
Dear Mr. Lesmez:
Thank you for taking the time to read the following preliminary proposal for the
Peace Corps/Chile's closing ceremony to be held in Santiago this April. I apologize
for the delay in submission.
The following pages outline our preliminary proposal for a Peace Corps closing
ceremony, especially as it pertains to the success of Chile's newly created national
volunteer system, Servicio Pais.
Thank you for your attention. Best regards.
PFP/kc
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