Who we are
We’re a diverse and inclusive Peace Corps community where every Volunteer can feel respected, safe, and supported to achieve their full potential.
Our Mission
We foster a lifelong community of connection and mentorship for LGBTQI+ RPCVs that unites our collective voices to champion international equity and justice for sexual and gender minorities.
Our Logo
Our logo is a product of our community’s input and talents. The dove is a nod to our shared history as Peace Corps Volunteers; and the rainbow iterations highlight the diversity, vibrancy, and dynamism of our LGBTQI+ community.
Our Board of Directors
The LGBTQI+ RPCV group is managed by an elected board of directors, who volunteer their time and talents for the betterment of the community.
We’re always seeking out new ideas and talents, so if you would like to join the board or explore leadership options, please contact us at lgbtqirpcv@gmail.com.
Secretary
Nick Denson
Treasurer
Nicky Santora
Communications Director
Justin Tabor
Pre-Service Liaison
Lex Ajello, MAPHB
Creative Director
Fynn M'Llyr
Community Engagement Coord.
Bea Kelly-Russo
LGBTQI+ RPCV History
Formed in 1991, the original LGBT RPCV group came about thanks to groups of RPCVs in San Fransisco and Washington D.C. who wanted to connect with fellow LGBT Returned Volunteers. The LGBT RPCV group stayed active for an impressive 27 years. They advocated for important policy changes within Peace Corps, and became a community resource for both RPCVs and those considering Peace Corps service. After accomplishing many of their goals, the LGBT RPCV group became inactive in 2018.
In 2021 the National Peace Corps Association (NPCA) began a series of meetings to explore the formation of a new group for RPCVs in the LGBTQI+ community, and that group became LGBTQI+ RPCVs. The name references the previous iteration of this community, but is updated to reflect inclusive language changes since 1991.
Thanks to a lot of hard work, LGBTQI+ RPCVs is an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. In 2023, LGBTQI+ RPCVs hosted our first community election and created the inaugural board. Together, we continue reaching out to the queer RPCV community, helping potential volunteers, and providing a loving, safe community.
Want to chat?
We always welcome new members and thought partners; so if you want to learn more about LGBTQI+ RPCVs, want to create a great community, have an idea for a program, or are interested in joining our board, please contact us at lgbtqirpcv@gmail.com or click the button to fill out our contact form.