Returned PC Volunteers Choose AoH for Charity of The Year

Academy of Hope has been selected by the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Washington, DC (RPCV/w) as their 2011 Charity of the Year. AoH was chosen among a group of three finalist for the organization’s Partnership for Peace, which is in its second year. Throughout the year RPCV/w members will support adult learners at AoH through volunteer service, fundraising events, and outreach. RPCV/w is planning a large service event during the Peace Corps 50th anniversary celebration in September 2011.

RPCV/w is kicking-off this year’s partnership on February 26th, with their Second Annual Peace Corps Open; a mini-golf tournament at DC’s H Street Country Club. Registration for would-be golfers (and their spectator friends) is now open to the general public.

Although the Academy of Hope has not had a formal relationship with RPCV/w in the past, there is a long history of RPCV involvement in the AoH community of learners. Two past Executive Directors served in the Peace Corps, as have several volunteer teachers, including DC LEARNs 2010 Outstanding Volunteer, Mike Ollinger. Patricia DeFerrari, a staff-member, served in Sri Lanka from 1983 to 1985 and joined the staff after volunteering as a science teacher. Students Marie Homan and Lancine Toure joined DeFerrari in presenting Academy of Hope's proposal to the RPCVw membership at a reception held at the Stewart Mott House in November.

Founded in 1979, The Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Washington D.C. represents more than 2,500 returned Peace Corps volunteers, Peace Corps staff, and Peace Corps families and supporters in the greater Washington D.C. area.