The Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Wisconsin – Madison group was formed in 1981 in response to Peace Corps' suggestion to all campus recruiters that they start up local groups of RPCVs, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the agency. Four members gathered at the Avenue Bar with the recruiter in February 1981 (fondly remembered, rightly or not, as Valentine’s Day). A Constitution and Bylaws were drawn up, and we were officially incorporated on October 18, 1982.

Members found camaraderie in their shared experiences. Further, Peace Corps founders had given volunteers a mission: to return to their communities and use their experiences to create understanding among people. This is known as the Third Goal. 

Members sought ways to help their former Peace Corps communities, and the group has been creative in fundraising. In 1982, the first Freeze for Food walk/run in January was started. Since then, this event has raised over $102,000 for non-profits focused on food security programs, partnering with different internationally-focused organizations, including Oxfam, Colombia Support Network and Open Doors for Refugees.

For 39 years, the RPCVs of Wisconsin - Madison has been holding successful 5K/10K events held during Wisconsin's famous winter months. The race was one of the only timed winter races when we started, and now has a hard core of regular and  regular, dynamic new runners who look forward to the event. The 2021 race will be our 40th annual race.

Send an email or call for details by Sunday, October 25, 2020 to:

Madeline Uraneck

globalmaddy@gmail.com(608) 658-5537

RPCV Lesotho 2006-2009

Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Wisconsin-Madison