I am urging my fellow RPCVs to contact their Congressional Representative and their Senators and ask that those offices be particularly alert to any requests for help from Peace Corps Volunteers and/or their families right now, through the election, and the transition from one administration to another; regardless of which party is in power. I called the local offices of my Representative and Senators. Then, I followed up with an email to their Washington office utilizing the thomas.gov website. Here is the message I sent:

DEAR____________:

I am urging you to pay special attention to any requests for help from Peace Corps Volunteers or their families on their behalf during this very vulnerable time of political transition. As you know, there are safety and security concerns involving Peace Corps Volunteers which Congress has yet to address in legislation. However, historically, the time of political transition in the United States has meant increased risk for Volunteers, for whatever reason.

February 14, 1977, when the Carter administration was still brand new, Richard Starr, a Peace Corps Volunteer serving in Colombia, was kidnapped by FARC. He was held for three years. Perhaps a more prompt response from the United States government in the early days of his capture might have helped him. More recently, in December of 2000, a Peace Corps Volunteer serving in Bolivia, went missing and has never been found. His family's pleas for help were initially not answered.

I IMPLORE THAT YOUR OFFICE PAY ATTENTION AND FOLLOW UP ON ANY REQUEST FROM PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS.


Vasquez, the current Peace Corps Director, has already resigned once and was persuaded to return only until the election. Who knows which staff will still be available and how much attention will be paid.

Thank you.

Joanne Marie Roll
Colombia 63-65

By daniel (ca07-ch01-bl09.va-ashburn0.sa.earthlink.net - 207.69.138.141) on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 11:35 am: Edit Post

Joanne Roll,

I have just read this. Thank you for your concern and support. You are making a difference on the hill. I will sign this and send it to the international relations committee. I am sure the families would be appreciative. Making progress. I won't discuss it on this web site as you know, there are folks who are not out for our best interest. Daniel

I would like to speak with you about our concerns further as you seem to be a rationale former volunteer. 978-462-3868