Hon. Carrie Hessler-Radelet for Peace Corps Park: America needs Peace Corps Park, now more than ever

December 17, 2024
A headshot of Carrie Hessler-Radelet

Dear Supporters,


From my experience as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Samoa to my term as director of the Peace Corps, I have seen how lives are changed by people working together, through service, to further the cause of peace. That service is an important part of our nation's legacy.


Americans have always stood for democracy, justice, equality, and service. The belief that what unites us is so much greater than that which divides us. The knowledge that, through service, we can create a better world together. These are the values that continue to draw people to our shores and reflect the best of America. 


Peace Corps Park is a space where stories of service will come alive—a place where we will celebrate the uniquely American spirit of Peace Corps dedicated to fostering understanding and building bridges of peace. It is a place where anyone, regardless of culture, race, faith, ethnicity, or background, can reflect upon the idea that we are all part of one human family.


Peace Corps Park is more than a place on the map. It is a living, breathing testament to America’s compassion and perseverance in service of humanity. Please join me in ensuring that this symbol of the American idea becomes a reality, with a donation that will ensure future generations are inspired by the ideas that inspire us.


Your generosity is not just an investment in a park; it is an investment in hope and the idea that, even in times of division, we can find common ground. That even when challenges feel insurmountable, we can persevere. That together, through compassion and action, we can create a world that reflects the very best of who we are.


Many thanks for your support, and for your faith in the power of peace through service. Let’s work together to make our vision a reality.


With warm regards,

An image of Carrie Hessler-Radelet's handwritten signature

Carrie Hessler-Radelet


Board Director, Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation
Director, Peace Corps (2014-17)
Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Samoa (1981-84)

December 9, 2025
Dear Supporters, One sweltering July morning in 1999, I found myself standing in a packed, under-conditioned subway car on my way to work in lower Manhattan. It was the Monday after the death of JFK Jr. and I distinctly remember looking out at the crowded platform and hearing a little voice in my head saying: “You know, accidents do happen—and if you died tomorrow, you would be so embarrassed at how you’ve been spending your life lately.”
November 20, 2025
November Newsletter: Peace Corps Park begins to take shape!
October 30, 2025
October Newsletter: New partners join the fundraising effort
October 16, 2025
Dear Supporters,  As one of the Peace Corps’ earliest acolytes – I was there at 2:00 a.m. at the University of Michigan the night a young John F. Kennedy proposed a new way to serve our country – I’ve been asked to tell my story many times.
An overhead view of the future site of Peace corps Park on Louisiana Ave. in Washington, D.C. with the U.S. Capitol dome in the foreground
September 25, 2025
September Newsletter: A new way to serve
August 28, 2025
August Newsletter: Inspiration from a hammer and chisel
July 31, 2025
July Newsletter: Embracing the magic of in-person connection
June 26, 2025
June Newsletter: We are still pioneers