Volunteer Advisory Committee

Mission Statement: The Peace Corps Volunteer Advisory Committee (VAC) works to strengthen and improve Peace Corps Cambodia and contribute to Peace Corps, worldwide. The VAC works in partnership with the country director, senior staff, and volunteers to address broad issues and concerns, which directly relate to improving programmatic and personal relations between volunteers and staff.

Summary 
VAC acts as a liaison between staff and volunteers in order to create the best possible experience for all involved in Peace Corps Cambodia. • VAC represents volunteers’ interests in the development and implementation of Peace Corps Cambodia policies, procedures, and programs. • VAC consists of eight representatives, composed of one elected representative from each program (CHE/ETTT) and year (K9/K10). • Travel costs to and from meetings held at the Peace Corps office in Phnom Penh are covered for VAC representatives. Meetings are held four times per year.

Responsibilities 
VAC is responsible for both gathering issues and concerns from volunteers as well as dispersing relevant information and clarification regarding policy changes, distributes meeting minutes and a Quarterly Report to PCVs. •VAC is intended to be a transparent organization, constituent identities are kept confidential – except in cases of safety and security.

What makes a good VAC Representative?
Professional or representational experience • Maturity • Creativity • Positive attitude • Demonstrates an understanding of Peace Corps expectations • Ability to adapt to change • Strong interpersonal skills

Successful VAC Ventures

  • Presented PCVs’ concerns regarding whereabouts, providing transparency on policy implementation.
  • Collected information and presented issues about uneven medical care to drive quality improvement. VAC’s preparation of a customer service feedback form helped to improve procedures in the health unit.
  • Proposed modifying the 5-day family leave allowance for ETTT PCVs, permitting PCVs to use the 5 days not only for family visits, but also for special cultural or significant personal events.
  • Helped improve/increase the availability of office bikes for PCVs.
  • Worked with staff to re-draft policy and guidance on personal appearance in the office.
  • Increased travel per diem and host family monthly allowance

Most Recent Actions

  • Planning Peace Corps Cambodia’s 10th anniversary celebration with Media Committee.
  • Informed PCVs of procedure by which to seek mental health support.
  • Requested more opportunities for interaction between K9 and K10 PCVs to build better networks for support and community.