When Small Things Make Great Things Possible, by John Chromy (India 1963-65)

A little over a year ago, John Chromy (India 1963-65) began a project to gather narratives on at least ten programs where the cumulative efforts of Peace Corps Volunteers and their host country counterparts either initiated, expanded or laid the groundwork for future expansion of programs that over a half century have become permanent elements in improving the lives of millions of people.

It was his intent to share these great narratives with a wide audience and to make these achievements a historical hallmark of the Peace Corps concept and its inherent belief in the value of “bottom-up community-based development.” I helped John identify these programs and also committed to helping disseminate the product of his work. Sadly, John passed away on October 19, 2024, just after delivering his report.

Published posthumously, “When Small Things Make Great Things Possible” shares a 50-year perspective on 10 Peace Corps programs that enabled their host country partners, communities, and institutions to substantially improve the lives of millions. Produced by Global Communities with the financial support of the Peace Corps Institute, it is made available as a digital publication by Peace Corps Worldwide.

John Chromy left us with these poignant words: “Read, enjoy, and savor this new view of Peace Corps’ achievements and impact. And know there are many more such stories out in the Peace Corps community, waiting to be gathered lest they fade into unknown history as the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers involved age and go to their eternal rewards.”

Click to read “When Small Things Make Great Things Possible.”

Glenn A. Blumhorst

Managing Editor, Peace Corps Worldwide

PeaceCorpsWorldwide.org