Has anyone ever volunteered for Peace Corps?

Question

Is it true that you can't be disabled to work for it?

Answer 1

Not totally true. PC must follow all equal opportunity laws, of course, and they will look at each individual applicant. There have been volunteers in the past with disabilities, but it is true that since PC is in developing countries without many of the same facilities as in the US, it can be much more difficult for someone with a major disability. Someone with a disability may qualify professionally for PC service, but may not make it through the medical clearance phase. It is possible, but can be difficult--it just depends on the person's disability.

If you have questions about it, contact PC and ask to speak to someone in the medical department before you apply to see if you'd be eligible. Their # is 1-800-424-8580.

By the way, that first answerer is totally wrong about the health care in the PC. All volunteers are provided with FULL medical care, vision, dental, etc. while they are serving abroad and the care is excellent. Each country has a PC office in the capital city with medical facilities for the volunteers and everything is covered. PC is a US government agency, so you will be getting government health benefits while serving as a PCV. Good luck!

Answer 2

I believe as a standard it is true. The Peace Corps job in it and of itself is very rigorous and demanding. I believe it depends on the disability and someone who is disabled knows their own limitations. Here are some guidelines to decide if someone with a disability might have a shot:
1) Can walk long distances or ride a bike on rough terrain
2) Does not need regular medical care (disability doesn't require any kind of medical treatment)
3)Can learn a foreign language or any sort of training without assistance.
4) Pass Peace Corps medical clearance. This one even non-disabled people have trouble with.
5) Can carry heavy loads without assistance
6) Can tolerate extreme climates

The Peace Corps is in developing countries that do not have adequate medical care, therefore their volunteers need to be extremely healthy as the PC cannot provide the care above the typical cold or rash.
If you are disabled and you feel you could do most everything on that list, I say go for it!

Answer 3

you actual want a diploma in some thing clever to volunteer for Peace Corp. they want knowledgeable people to flow to distant places and build bridges and tutor agriculture. they are no longer searching for organic muscle. The underdeveloped countries have already got muscle tissue. The Peace Corp needs enormous brains and instructors.

Answer 4

I tried to volunteer, but they want people with college degrees and I didn't have one then. You could try with VISTA (volunteers in service to america)