Submitted by Pierce College
An upcoming community event hosted by Pierce College will honor the work and dedication of Peace Corps volunteers during a volatile time in Korea’s history. In the 1960s and 70s, countless Peace Corps workers devoted their lives to helping rebuild the country following a devastating war.
On June 30, Pierce College will host a photo exhibit in honor of these efforts, titled “Past, Present and Future Friends of Korea,” featuring more than 70 images and several videos documenting this time period. The event is also sponsored by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Seattle, and will take place at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom’s Cascade Building Performance Lounge from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All members of the community are welcome to enjoy the exhibit, particularly those with a connection to the Peace Corps.
In Korea, American Peace Corps workers focused much of their efforts on teaching the local community the meaning of giving back. The power of their work can still be seen today, as the Republic of Korea has transformed into a country that truly values the importance of giving, according to International Education Executive Director Myung Park. “Many people would say that because of American’s 20 years of giving in Korea, it has become one of the biggest countries giving back to others around the world,” she said.
Park hopes to share stories of volunteerism and philanthropy with her international students to expose them to an important side of American culture. “We want to emphasize to our students that Pierce College cares about the community,” Park said. “We want them to learn how to service the community and the importance of volunteerism.”
Members of the community with ties to the Peace Corps, as well as military veterans who served in the Korean War, are invited to the event as special honored guests.
“We want to extend our appreciation to all Peace Corps volunteers for teaching the importance of giving back,” Park said. “This event is a wonderful way to thank the philanthropy of America.”
