You care.
With that care comes a mix of emotions—anxiety, excitement, worry, and even fear. It’s natural.
As your child serves overseas, it can feel like you’re right there with them, sharing their journey from afar. While the internet and Peace Corps safety protocols provide reassurance, some questions linger.
This Q&A pulls from our experiences and insights from other Peace Corps parents to help answer them. Don’t see your question? Leave a comment or reach out—we’re here to help.
Let’s dive in!
Q) How do I get in contact with my child while they are in the Peace Corps?
A) The Peace Corps has established systems to help volunteers stay connected with their loved ones. Volunteers have access to internet and phone services at their country headquarters, and they can use these facilities to contact home.
While the quality of service can vary depending on the volunteer’s location, most volunteers can access basic cell phone service and some form of internet, though it may not always be reliable. It’s a good idea to discuss communication preferences with your child beforehand, as they will likely have limited or intermittent access depending on where they are stationed.
Q) What happens if there is an emergency in the country?
A) Peace Corps service does carry some inherent risks—whether from natural disasters, political unrest, or other challenges. However, the Peace Corps has comprehensive safety measures in place to protect volunteers.
Each Peace Corps post is equipped with a Safety and Security office, as well as a highly qualified medical team. During Pre-Service Training (PST), volunteers undergo extensive safety training, covering a variety of situations including public transportation safety, personal security, and regional emergency evacuation plans.
These systems help mitigate risk and ensure that volunteers are prepared to respond if something goes wrong.
Q) How does the Peace Corps keep track of my child?
A) One of the most fulfilling aspects of Peace Corps service is the freedom to travel—whether it's exploring the host country or taking short trips during designated breaks. However, safety protocols ensure that volunteers are always accounted for.
Before traveling, volunteers are required to report their whereabouts to the Safety and Security team. If they plan to leave the country, they must submit a vacation request, detailing their travel plans, accommodation information, and emergency contacts. This ensures that the Peace Corps can reach them if needed and maintain oversight of their safety during travel.
Q) What if there is an emergency back home?
A) If an emergency occurs back home and you need to contact your child, the Peace Corps has two emergency lines that you can use to get in touch:
855.855.1961 ext. 1470
Calls made to these lines are transferred from the Peace Corps headquarters directly to your child’s country of service. The appropriate Peace Corps staff will be notified and will help facilitate communication with your child as quickly as possible. More details on how to handle emergency situations can be found on the Peace Corps website.
Q) Could my child get seriously hurt?
A) Yes, there are always risks associated with living and working abroad, especially in unfamiliar environments. Peace Corps volunteers are in a foreign country for 27 months, which naturally carries a certain level of risk. However, the Peace Corps is committed to minimizing these risks through training, preparation, and support systems.
Volunteers are not alone—besides the Peace Corps staff, they have fellow volunteers and local partners to look out for them. In addition, the Peace Corps has numerous resources and protocols in place for emergency situations, from medical care to evacuation procedures, ensuring that your child is supported if something goes wrong.
Q) What is the outline of my child's Peace Corps training?
A) Peace Corps training is a comprehensive and intense process, usually spanning three months and focusing on language, culture, and technical skills. Volunteers undergo training tailored to their sector—whether that’s community development, education, agriculture, or another area—and receive practical knowledge in areas like farming techniques, small business management, and health education.
The training program varies by country, but the overall goal is to ensure that your child is well-prepared for their service. They will leave training with the confidence and tools they need to succeed in their role and adapt to their new community. For a more detailed breakdown, we recommend reading Peace Corps Training.
Q) Can you tell me more about safety and security?
A) The Peace Corps does a thorough job of explaining safety and security on their website, and we recommend reviewing it for in-depth information.
While the Peace Corps continually works to improve its safety protocols based on volunteer feedback and global factors, it’s important to acknowledge that no system is perfect. Volunteers may still face safety concerns, particularly around issues like sexual assault. We encourage you to read both the CBS coverage on these matters and the Peace Corps’ response for a more balanced understanding.
Q) How can I send packages to my child?
A) Receiving a care package can be a meaningful and uplifting experience for Peace Corps volunteers. Though sending packages is possible, it can be a bit tricky, as each country has its own regulations for customs and prohibited items. However, here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Mark the package as a “gift” to avoid customs fees.
If the value of the contents exceeds $10 USD, declare the items as used.
Clearly label the package with your child’s name, address, and any additional information needed.
Use flat-rate shipping to minimize costs.
Be sure to check with the Peace Corps or other online resources for specific guidelines about sending packages to the country where your child is serving.
Q) How can I send money to my child?
A) Sending money internationally can be challenging, but there are several options for getting funds to your child. We recommend reviewing the Peace Corps' finance guide to better understand the landscape.
If you’re looking for a quick and reliable way to send money, a simple but effective method is to place cash in a book or other secure item and send it with your care package. While it’s not the most straightforward option, it’s worked for many families. Check with your child first to feel out any obstacles to this idea.