Meaning: The quote "In the Peace Corps, the volunteer must be a fully developed, mature person. He must not join to run abroad or escape problems" by Sargent Shriver encapsulates the core principles and ethos of the Peace Corps, an organization dedicated to promoting peace and friendship through cross-cultural exchange and volunteerism. Sargent Shriver, the politician who played a pivotal role in establishing the Peace Corps, emphasized the importance of personal integrity and commitment to service in the context of international volunteer work.

The Peace Corps was established by executive order of President John F. Kennedy in 1961, with the aim of providing technical assistance, promoting mutual understanding, and fostering global cooperation. The organization sends American volunteers to work in various fields such as education, health, agriculture, and the environment in communities around the world. The quote reflects the underlying philosophy that the Peace Corps is not a means of escapism or a way to avoid personal problems, but rather a platform for individuals who are willing to contribute their skills and expertise to make a positive impact in the world.

Shriver's emphasis on the volunteer being a "fully developed, mature person" underscores the idea that successful participation in the Peace Corps requires a high level of personal responsibility, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. It suggests that volunteers should possess a strong sense of self-awareness, empathy, and a willingness to engage with diverse communities in a respectful and meaningful manner. This requirement aligns with the Peace Corps' commitment to promoting sustainable development and fostering genuine relationships with host communities.

The notion that volunteers should not join the Peace Corps to "run abroad or escape problems" speaks to the importance of intention and motivation. It highlights the fact that volunteerism should be rooted in a genuine desire to serve and to contribute positively to the global community, rather than being driven by personal issues or a desire to avoid challenges at home. This emphasis on the intrinsic motivation of volunteers reflects the Peace Corps' goal of promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation based on mutual respect and shared humanity.

Furthermore, Shriver's quote serves as a reminder that the Peace Corps experience is not a one-way exchange, but rather a reciprocal process of learning and growth for both volunteers and the communities they serve. It emphasizes the need for volunteers to approach their service with humility, openness, and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with local partners. This perspective underscores the idea that the Peace Corps is not about imposing solutions from outside, but rather about working alongside communities to address their specific needs and priorities in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner.

In conclusion, Sargent Shriver's quote succinctly captures the core values of the Peace Corps and the principles that underpin the organization's approach to international volunteerism. It highlights the importance of personal integrity, maturity, and genuine motivation in the context of cross-cultural service, while emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the volunteer experience. By embodying these principles, volunteers can make a meaningful and lasting contribution to global peace and development through their service in the Peace Corps.