Recollections of Our Peace Corps Service, 1963-1965

These personal recollections of Guatemala III's volunteers reveal a variety of motives for their joining the Peace Corps. Conspicuous among them is the profound influence of President John F. Kennedy. Many members of the group responded to his challenge to, "Ask what you can do for your country." Section II of the book is devoted to the group's recollection of their service in Guatemala. Their "community development" projects scattered them throughout the country. Such projects varied greatly, but all were defined by the needs of the Guatemalans themselves. Financial backing was generally meager unless creative fund-raising measures were launched. Laborers were local people, often unpaid volunteers. Great challenges were faced; inconveniences, discomforts, and "culture shock" was endured. Group members relied upon one another for support, advice, encouragement, comfort, companionship and more. The book's last section offers the volunteers' impressions of the impact of their Peace Corps service on their later lives. For most, it was pivotal and life-shaping. Their perspectives on the world were broadened and deepened. An appreciation of their own society's freedoms, economic opportunities, scientific advancements, and creature comforts was gained. Most agree that they, not the Guatemalans, were the principal beneficiaries of the experience.