Read on for the latest direct updates we’ve been able to get from Peace Corps HQ:
The Alliance for Ukraine met with Peace Corps CEO/Acting Director Carol Spahn and members of her office on March 1st regarding the Russian war in Ukraine. While we touched on many topics, the main takeaways were on what Peace Corps HQ is doing to support Peace Corps Ukraine staff.
- US-based Peace Corps staff continue to do check-ins multiple times a week with full-time PC Ukraine staff.
- CEO Spahn emphasized that all full-time employees of PC Ukraine will continue to be formally employed and receive their salaries.
- Over the past few days, PC HQ as well as PC Moldova staff have been working tirelessly to adjust contracts to allow for pay advances to PC Ukraine staff.
We relayed your concerns for former staff and those who had been on part-time contracts prior to the pandemic; specifically, LCFs and TCFs. CEO Spahn mentioned ongoing conversations regarding any assistance they can provide LCFs,TCFs, and contracted employees. They are currently exploring available options and will coordinate with the Alliance if there are gaps we can help to fill.The Alliance will maintain open lines of communication with her office for the foreseeable future.
Peace Corps HQ is also doing what they are allowed to do when it comes to refugees, special visas, or general crossings of borders; however, they suggested that any questions regarding that should primarily be directed to the State Department.
We also discussed the ways that interested RPCVs might prepare to help with the influx of refugees from Ukraine. CEO Spahn’s office followed up via email with additional resources. Reminder – it is important not to rush into crisis situations unprepared and uninvited. We are working to ensure we are connected with and aware of any opportunities for RPCVs to help Ukrainian refugees.
- USAID Center for International Disaster Information
- USAID Mission to Ukraine
- National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
What can Alliance members do right now?
- Advocate with your representatives!
- Share information about what is happening and convince the people in your lives to reach out to their representatives.
- Use our easy online form to send letters to the Biden Administration and your leaders in Congress: Click here. We’ve updated the text several times and you are also able to make your own edits. If you’ve sent a letter already, you can still send another one.
- RPCVs can also provide emotional support to Ukrainians in your lives. As host families, colleagues, and friends reach out to you, be an emotional support for them. While we can’t be physically present, we can be great listeners – and (with permission and a mind to safety) we can amplify their voices
- Direct those in your life to reputable humanitarian aid efforts, outlined on the Alliance website.