About Us

The West Cascade Peace Corps Association (WCPCA) was founded in 1980 by a group of returned Peace Corps Volunteers as a means of staying connected and carrying out the Peace Corps' third goal of bringing the world back home. Over time as the group grew it found that equally important was providing fellowship to returning volunteers and helping them readjust to life in the United States.

The mission of WCPCA is to promote humanitarian and educational programs in connection with accomplishing the third goal of the Peace Corps as mandated by Congress in 1961, "To promote a better understanding of other people on the part of the American people."

We pursue our mission by participating in many community activities and service projects. A favorite activity, for instance, has long been marching (actually sort of meandering along) in the annual Eugene Celebration parade. We also raise money to fund programs including those of Peace Corps Volunteers in the field through the Peace Corps Partnership Program.

Our membership dues are low to attract as many people as possible. Donations to the organization are tax deductible as provided by law for a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.

The group has an elected Board of Directors that meets quarterly to conduct business. WCPCA also hosts a bimonthly social meeting that is usually a potluck dinner. Most of our members come from Oregon's Southern Willamette Valley. However, membership is open to all RPCVs, staff and supporters. We invite all prospective Peace Corps Volunteers, parents, relatives and friends of active Peace Corps Volunteers to join us at our monthly meetings.

The University of Oregon in Eugene is proud to be one of the leading institutions in recruiting Peace Corps Volunteers. The West Cascade Peace Corps Association works closely with the campus Peace Corps representative to maintain this admirable record.