Our Mission

Women of Peace Corps Legacy (WPCL) is a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to advance women and girls empowerment to create a better, more just, equitable, inclusive and safe world for future generations. We have a small board and several working groups that meet virtually and face-to-face.

We seek to partner with and highlight the work of those existing organizations and programs that are effectively addressing the issues of women and girls. We aspire to represent all those women whose lives have been positively affected by Peace Corps, those currently serving, and those who have served over the last 60 plus years.

Our Vision

We envision a diverse Peace Corps community supporting the empowerment and education of women and girls globally.

Our Values

Our guiding principles are inform by our values of  community, empowerment, intergenerational, celebration. 

 

Our History

Women of the Peace Corps Legacy (WPCL) started as a gathering of three friends, Lee Lacy (Samoa 1971-1973), Jody Olsen (Tunisia 1966-1968) and Betsi Shays (Fiji 1968-1970).  The women posed questions about the role of women in the Peace Corps,  “I can remember saying at one point, some of the most interesting women I’ve ever met had some affiliation with the Peace Corps and wouldn’t it be great to get them all in the same room?” said Lee. Over time, two more women would become involved in the creation of WPCL from the conversations Lacy, Olsen and Shays had. Laverne Webb and Syd Merz were brought on for their unique skills and connections to the Peace Corps.

As the organization developed, the issue of what to call the group arose. Three key components needed to be considered, WPCL was to be an organization of women, there was a direct and explicit connection to the Peace Corps, and the main goal of the organization was to celebrate decades of women’s Peace Corps service. Out of those concerns came the name Women of the Peace Corps Legacy.

Our Future

As we look to the future, we hope to reach a broader audience with our “Extra-Ordinary Women” Podcast, engage with more like-minded individuals and organizations, and continue to empower women and girls around the world.

To follow along with WPCL as we continue to develop, or view previous events.

Follow us on the Women of Peace Corps Legacy – YouTube Channel

Annual Report