PEACE CORPS/GUATEMALA

PCV HANDBOOK

February, 2013

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 5
PEACE CORPS GUATEMALA VALUES ................................................................................... 6
PCV CODE OF ETHICS ................................................................................................................ 7
1. Volunteer Philosophy and Lifestyle........................................................................................ 9
1.1 Living within Your Living Allowance ............................................................................. 9
1.2 Adapting to Change .......................................................................................................... 9
1.3 Personal Appearance ....................................................................................................... 10
1.4 Housing ........................................................................................................................... 11
1.5 Pets .................................................................................................................................. 12
2. Time Away From Site ........................................................................................................... 12
2.1 Whereabouts Notification Policy .................................................................................... 12
2.2 Personal Time Away from Site (PTAS) ......................................................................... 13
2.3 Approval of Work-Related Absences from Project Site ................................................. 14
3. Transportation Policy ............................................................................................................ 15
4. Personal Emergencies / Matters ............................................................................................ 15
4.1 Medical Evacuation ........................................................................................................ 15
4.2 Family Illness or Death ................................................................................................... 16
4.3 Visitors ............................................................................................................................ 17
4.4 Cohabitation .................................................................................................................... 17
4.5 Paternity .......................................................................................................................... 17
4.6 Marriage .......................................................................................................................... 18
4.7 Pregnancy........................................................................................................................ 18
4.8 Abortion .......................................................................................................................... 19
5. Leave ..................................................................................................................................... 19
5.1 Annual Leave Philosophy ............................................................................................... 19
5.2 Criteria and Parameters for Taking Annual Leave ......................................................... 20
5.3 Annual Leave Outside of Guatemala .............................................................................. 21
5.4 PCV Events ..................................................................................................................... 22
5.5 Adventure Sports (Revised March 2013) ....................................................................... 22
5.6 First Aid and Provision of Medical Care ........................................................................ 22
5.7 Restrictions on Volunteer Travel Destinations ............................................................... 23
5.8 Other types of Leave ....................................................................................................... 23
6. Termination/Extension of Service ........................................................................................ 24

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6.1 Definitions of Early Termination .................................................................................... 25

6.2 Completion of Service (COS) ......................................................................................... 27
6.3 Early COS ....................................................................................................................... 28
6.4 Extension of Service ....................................................................................................... 29
7. Web Sites and Publications................................................................................................... 31
8. Projects, Fundraising and Donations .................................................................................... 32
9. Administrative Matters ......................................................................................................... 33
9.1 Mail and Packages .......................................................................................................... 33
9.2 Shipment of Materials to Guatemala .............................................................................. 34
9.3 Identification and Health Documents ............................................................................. 34
9.4 Passport and Visas .......................................................................................................... 34
9.5 Voting Assistance ........................................................................................................... 35
10. Financial Responsibility...................................................................................................... 36
10.1 NDEA Loan Moratorium .............................................................................................. 36
10.2 Other Federally Insured Student Loans ........................................................................ 36
10.3 Living Allowance.......................................................................................................... 36
10.4 Settling-in Allowance ................................................................................................... 36
10.5 Banking Arrangements ................................................................................................. 37
10.6 Currency Exchange ....................................................................................................... 40
10.7 U.S. Income Tax Payments ........................................................................................... 40
10.8 FECA Coverage ............................................................................................................ 40
10.9 Readjustment Allowance .............................................................................................. 40
10.10 Home of Record .......................................................................................................... 42
10.11 Lost and Stolen Property and Cash ............................................................................. 43
ANNEXES .................................................................................................................................... 45
Annex: Sexual Assault Risk Reduction and Response Program ............................................. 46
Annex: Commitment to Sexual Assault Victims ..................................................................... 53
Annex: Medical Missions Policy Guidance .............................................................................. 54
Annex: Marriage ....................................................................................................................... 56
Annex: Holidays ....................................................................................................................... 58
Annex: Planning of Volunteer Group Events ........................................................................... 59
Annex: Adventure Sports - SCUBA Diving ............................................................................. 61
Annex: Scuba Diving Policy - Acknowledgment Form ........................................................... 64
Annex: First Aid and Provision of Medical Care ..................................................................... 65

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Annex: Extensions - Special Leave .......................................................................................... 66

Annex: Steps to Export Pets to the United States ..................................................................... 68
Annex: Help Protect Children ................................................................................................... 69
Annex: Administrative Separation: Things to Avoid ............................................................ 70
Annex: Commonly Used Peace Corps Acronyms .................................................................... 71

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PEACE CORPS

INTRODUCTION
This Volunteer handbook for Guatemala covers the major areas of interaction for the effective
and safe management of our Post, including our Volunteers, staff, resources and services.
Within this manual you will find that we have addressed many questions and guidelines most
relevant to each Volunteers day-to-day living and working experience in Guatemala. Some of
the policies in this manual are agency directives, while other policies and practices are specific
to Peace Corps Guatemala. While you may not agree with all of the policies and practices, we
have included our rationale for many of them so that you can understand why we believe that
they are fair and reflect the philosophy and concerns of Peace Corps and our Post.
Please also consider that given the importance and complexity of our lives in Peace Corps, this
manual will never be a substitute for the integrity, common sense, and positive intent of staff
and Volunteers.
If you have questions or suggestions on the development of policies and practices, or their
communication, please let me know. Policies and practices do change when it becomes
apparent that there is a need for additions or revisions. When revisions to the policies and
practices are made, Volunteers will be notified via a memo and encouraged to include the new
policy or practice in their handbook for easy reference. A general review of the entire Volunteer
Handbook is undertaken annually.
Please note: It is your responsibility to read and understand the contents of this handbook and
to follow the policies and practices within. If you are not clear on a policy or practice, it is your
responsibility to ask for clarification. Please read this manual carefully, consult it regularly, and
keep it with you throughout your service with Peace Corps.
It is an honor and a pleasure to work with the Volunteers, staff, and partners of Peace Corps
Guatemala.
Thank you for your dedication and hard work as you contribute to the goals of Peace Corps.

George Like
Country Director
3a. Calle 6-48, Zona 1, Santa Luca Milpas Altas, Sacatepquez, 03001
Telfono: PBX (502) 7828-2500 Fax (502) 7828-254
Guatemala, Guatemala, C.A.

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PEACE CORPS GUATEMALA VALUES

Our Mission & Goals
The mission of Peace Corps is to promote world peace and friendship through three
simple goals:
1) Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and
women;
2) Helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples
served; and
3) Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
Our Vision
Peace Corps will be a leader, in partnership with others, in the global effort to further
human progress and foster understanding and respect among people.
Peace Corps Guatemala will accomplish its mission by building strong host-country
partnerships and ensuring the highest quality training delivery to produce and support
the worlds finest Peace Corps Volunteers.
Our Values
Peace Corps Guatemala believes that building TRUST is essential in order to most
effectively support the efforts driven and led by our counterparts, whether they are a
community, agency or individual.
Peace Corps Guatemala believes that the path towards true cooperation and change
must be one where HONESTY, INTEGRITY and OPENNESS are paramount.
Peace Corps Guatemala RESPECTS the wide diversity of cultures present in
Guatemala, and has tailored its programs towards supporting development while
preserving the integrity of Guatemalas cultures.
Peace Corps Guatemala contributes to the development of Guatemalas people by
transferring skills and knowledge through open, constant and clear COMMUNICATION.
Peace Corps Guatemala tackles the challenges associated with development with
POSITIVITY and CREATIVITY.
Peace Corps Guatemala believes that VOLUNTEERS are the solution to the many
challenges faced by Guatemala during the process of development.

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PCV CODE OF ETHICS

The legacy of Peace Corps is based upon the work of its Volunteers. To best impact
the broader Peace Corps mission of peace, Trainees and Volunteers must display
extraordinary vision, technical acumen, and commitment. Commitment and hard work
are paramount to successful service and the greatest impact on the host country, the
PCV and the United States. Peace Corps Volunteers worldwide are required to maintain
the following standards. Violation of any ethic is grounds for Administrative Separation.
Volunteers may not use their positions, information obtained as a result of their
Peace Corps assignments, or their status as Peace Corps Volunteers, for
personal financial gain during their Peace Corps service, either for themselves or
for another individual or organization, particularly individuals or organizations with
whom they have family, business or financial ties.
Volunteers may not use their position or status as a Volunteer to influence
decisions of prospective employers or others with respect to their post-service
employment, educational opportunities, or other personal benefits. This
prohibition does not prevent consideration of a Volunteers experience as a
relevant factor in employment and other decisions. In particular, Volunteers
should be aware that post-Volunteer employment or other business relationships
with organizations with which they had dealings in their Volunteer capacity may
create an appearance of conflict of interest that would be detrimental to the
Peace Corps program.
Volunteers are expected to honor their commitment to a full term of service.
They should not apply for or consider employment or educational openings or
offers that will require the early termination of their service. Volunteers may apply
during their Peace Corps service for positions with Peace Corps or with
businesses, schools or service organizations that begin after their COS dates.
Volunteers may not transact any business, engage in any profession, except as
part of their Volunteer assignment, or undertake other gainful employment during
Peace Corps service.
Volunteers may not invest in real estate in their country of assignment, invest
money in bonds, shares, or any other form of ownership of commercial concerns
headquartered in their country of assignment or which conduct a substantial
portion of business in that country. This prohibition is not intended to apply to
ownership of publicly traded securities bought on the open market that is de
minimum in terms of management or control of the organization.
Volunteers are prohibited from speculating in currency exchange. They should
not engage in transactions at exchange rates other than those legally available.
Volunteers are not permitted to use their official status or permit use of their
position or identification as Peace Corps workers in any private business
transactions or in advertisements for business purposes or to acquire donations
for non-official activities.
Volunteers may not sell or dispose of personal property at prices producing
profits, including profits that might result from import privileges deriving from their

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status as Peace Corps Volunteers or from the sale of property supplied to them
by the Peace Corps.

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1. Volunteer Philosophy and Lifestyle

1.1 Living within Your Living Allowance
Peace Corps emphasizes the practical value and importance of modest living standards
in the host country. This is probably the most long-lived and least challenged of Peace
Corps original ideals. Despite the impossibility of defining modest living standards even
in specific situations, The Peace Corps Handbook states the following criteria: When
there is any choice, the minimum standard is adequacy of shelter without risk to health;
the maximum standard is comfort without ostentation.
Volunteers receive a living allowance that enables them to live like a modest member
of their community. Peace Corps strongly discourages Volunteers from supplementing
this income with private funds. Volunteers should carefully consider whether increasing
their personal comfort is worth possible detriment to their acceptance and service.
While seeking to live modestly, each PCV should act and dress as a professional.
Each Volunteer is responsible for managing his/her own resources. Peace Corps will
not be responsible for individuals who find themselves with limited cash at the end of
the month because of poor management.
Volunteers are prohibited from engaging in any activity that may result in personal
financial benefit. This includes any form of employment, service for fee, purchase or
resale of property or investment in land, buildings, companies or stock registered in the
host country, or any other activities which may be perceived as creating personal
financial gain. Receiving outside payment for services is grounds for Administrative
Separation.
PCVs are expected to live within the amount of the established Living Allowance. PCVs
cannot receive payment for any work done while in the Peace Corps service, such as
private tutoring.
Portions of the Readjustment Allowance may not be requested as a supplement to the
Living Allowance.
It is very important that Volunteers avoid situations that might give the impression they
are engaging in activities for profit. For example, Volunteers should not offer loans or
personal services to people or businesses. Volunteers should not sell items even if the
proceeds are given back to the community.
1.2 Adapting to Change
Each Peace Corps Volunteer is expected to adapt to and respect the local culture.
Peace Corps is not asking you to deny your values and opinions but we are asking you
to view them through the eyes of your counterparts and community members. When
you arrive in your site each of you should become observers with the aim of learning the
rhythm of life in your community and at your workplace. You, as a PCV, are in an

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excellent position to introduce alternatives and options, without imposing the U.S. point
of view or values.
Be patient with yourself and your community.
Also, keep in mind that your social and working life cannot be separated to the extent
they can be in the United States. The concept of life in a fishbowl applies to life and
work in Guatemala-campo or city. An indiscreet private life will likely get back to your
community and/or your co-workers and may present obstacles to success during your
service. In keeping with Peace Corps goals, Volunteers are expected to come to
Guatemala to serve the needs of Guatemalans and to leave with a better understanding
of the country and the people. The best way to achieve these goals is through
integration into your community.
1.3 Personal Appearance
Your appearance will be important in conservative Guatemala. If you are a good
observer you will be able to be in tune with local customs and will not offend anyone.
One good guideline for PCVs is to discern the type of clothing worn by your community
leaders and counterparts. In Guatemala, professional men and women dress more
formally than Americans, especially when conducting personal or professional business.
This is true in cities and in the campo. You will note that rural people wear plain clothes
when they are working, but they wear their best attire when they attend a meeting or an
important event. Clothing in the field is generally conservative (slacks/shirt, skirt/blouse)
when visiting government functionaries, ministry officials or others in positions of
authority.
The Peace Corps office is an official place of business. Guatemalan and American
personnel, officials, and vendors visit regularly. The following will serve to guide T/Vs
as to what is acceptable and not acceptable both in the PC/G office and generally in the
workplace.
Men are expected to maintain their hair neatly trimmed above the collar.
Dreadlocks are widely misinterpreted in Guatemala among the population you
will be working with, and therefore, are not an acceptable hairstyle for a volunteer
in Guatemala.
Neatly trimmed short beards are acceptable.
Other than earrings for women, T/Vs should have no visible body piercing.
Tattoos are strongly associated with gangs. Any existing tattoos should be kept
covered if possible. No additional visible tattoos should be acquired during your
PC service.
Patched or torn clothing, earrings, or ponytails on men or other such personal
styles will hinder your acceptance, hence your effectiveness, and therefore are
not acceptable.
Shorts are not appropriate outside the home in most areas in Guatemala,
especially while working. In fact, shorts are frowned upon in most macho
cultures such as Guatemalas.
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Military surplus clothing or equipment is at no time acceptable due to the

association with the civil conflict in Guatemala.
Pants with a low-cut waist or a shortened shirt revealing a bare midriff is
culturally inappropriate, as are bare shoulders (no spaghetti straps) and
excessive show of skin.
Flip flops, Tivas, and other types of sport sandals do not fit well into work-wear
here, but may be acceptable for evening or weekends.
Gum chewing is viewed as disrespectful and not in keeping with a professional
presentation.
Neatness and proper dress is a cultural value in Guatemalan society. Volunteers
should recognize that they are viewed as development professionals who have
significant implications for the way they dress and behave. Volunteers should dress
suitably and respectfully both on and off the job. Wearing clean, appropriate clothing
enables cross-cultural respect and acceptance. Inappropriate clothing may be a silent
but contributing factor in delaying cross-cultural acceptance, by sending unintended
messages and/or invitations.
We strongly believe that your cultural sensitivity to appearance will greatly enhance your
ability to work productively and interact socially with the people of Guatemala.
1.4 Housing
In order to promote community integration, improve language acquisition, and increase
personal safety, Volunteers who have arrived in country in 2011 or after will live with
host families throughout their two years of service. Living with a family enhances the
Volunteers security and is in keeping with Guatemalan culture where it is uncommon
for single people to live alone.
After the initial six months in site, PCVs may choose to move to a different host family
situation that they have identified, once it has been inspected and approved as meeting
PC/Gs housing criteria for safety and hygiene.
All Volunteers must live in housing that meets PC/G minimum housing criteria. All
volunteer housing must be inspected by a staff member to comply with all housing
safety and security criteria before the volunteer is approved to occupy the residence.
Peace Corps policy requires that all housing be inspected prior to occupancy in order to
ensure that the T/V will live in acceptable housing. This inspection is done by the PM,
PTS, or another staff member. This inspection is done prior to the arrival of the T/V in
site. The criteria used for approving housing may be found in the Annex entitled PCV
Housing Checklist. This policy also applies to any changes in housing during service.
Housing must be simple and consistent with a modest living standard and within
the means of PCVs designated monthly living allowances.
Necessary appliances, furnishings, and security upgrades are to be consistent
with local living standards.
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Volunteer housing must be located in the PCVs project site unless previously
approved by the PM.
1.4.1 Site Locator Form (SLF)
It is the responsibility of the PCV to update the SLF with housing and site information
within 2 weeks of arriving to site.
1.5 Pets
PCVs cannot have pets during the first six months in country. Pets are not allowed in
the Peace Corps Offices or shuttles.
2. Time Away From Site
Peace Corps believes that Volunteers should be in their sites as much as possible in
order to retain the confidence and respect of their community, counterparts, and project
partners. However, there are occasions when PCVs have reason work related and
personal - to be away from their sites. In all instances PCVs are reminded to comply
with the Whereabouts Notification Policy and procedures, in accordance to each
situation as outlined below.
2.1 Whereabouts Notification Policy
The highest priority of the Peace Corps is the health, safety, security, and support of
Volunteers. In order to provide early warning and support during natural, social, or
personal emergencies, PC/G must know the whereabouts of T/Vs. Throughout the long
history of PC/G, T/Vs have had to be contacted and given appropriate and timely
instruction in times of emergency. Such immediate contact has only been possible by
having a solid Whereabouts Notification system in place.
It is understood that Volunteers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week and, as
such, should be at their sites as much as possible in order to retain the confidence and
respect of their community and counterparts. If a Trainee is away from his/her assigned
training site or if a Volunteer is away from his/her project site overnight, the T/V must
notify PC/G. Volunteers are responsible for notifying PC/G of their whereabouts at all
times and without exception.
Whereabouts Notification and routine approval to be away from ones project site are
separate requirements. PC/Gs approval of an absence from a project site does not
eliminate the Volunteers need for Whereabouts Notification. If a Volunteer is taking
personal time, going on Annual Leave, taking medical leave, participating in an
approved work-related activity, or any other type of approved leave, and if the Volunteer
will be out of his/her assigned site for an overnight, it is the Volunteers responsibility to
notify PC/G as to where they will be.
A Trainee may only be away from his/her training site overnight by receiving permission
from the Training Manager.

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It is expected that in the majority of instances PCVs will be able to plan their time away
from site as part of their monthly calendars that are submitted as a first step to their
PM/PTS. A Volunteer is expected to be in their site during the week and would need to
discuss any overnight absence away from their site beforehand with their Project
Manager or be approved for vacation time. The PC/G whereabouts notification can be
achieved
by
the
telephone
number:
7828-2538
or
by
email:
pcvsite@gt.peacecorps.gov
In notifying us of your whereabouts, please be prepared to provide the following
information:
Your full name (clearly stated if via telephone)
Where you are going to be
Dates you will be away from site
A contact telephone number at your new location (other than your cell phone)
If for any reason you feel that your message was not received you are obliged to call
another staff member who can then record the information.
Inconvenience or difficulty of notification, when any possible alternative mode of
direct communication to PC/G is available, will not be considered as an
extenuating circumstance. All non-compliance of the Whereabouts Notification
Policy will be subject to disciplinary actions up to and including immediate
separation from the Peace Corps.
2.2 Personal Time Away from Site (PTAS)
PC/G recognizes that Volunteers occasionally need some down time in order to take a
break from routine, as well as logistical time to do things or buy those items not
available in and around their sites. Some PCVs live in sites where most of their needs
can be met (water, gas, food supplies, internet), while other PCVs live in sites where
they need more logistical time to access these goods and services.
When PTAS can be taken is determined by each PCVs work schedule and will
be planned into the monthly calendar submitted in advance to your PM/PTS.
Travel must be completed during daylight hours; no Volunteers are authorized to
travel after 18:00 hours.
As necessary, and without detriment to the Volunteers integration into the
community and ongoing responsibilities, a Volunteer may take up to three (3)
days/nights per month as personal time away from site. To do so and as to
follow the Guatemalan work culture, Volunteers will be authorized to leave their
assigned sites no more than two (2) weekends per month.
Volunteers will be able to have: A) One (1) Long weekend with 2 nights out of
site; which will start on Friday at 14:00 hours and will require PCVs to be back in
their sites on Sunday at 17:00 hours, and B) One (1) Short Weekend with 1
night out of site; which will start on Saturday at 5:00 hours and will require PCVs
to be back in their sites on Sunday at 17:00 hours.

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If personal time away from site exceeds three days per month, then annual leave
must be taken.
When Volunteers take PTAS they must abide by the Whereabouts Notification
Policy.
2.3 Approval of Work-Related Absences from Project Site
PC/G encourages Volunteers to become involved in activities that enhance their roles
as community development professionals and advance the accomplishment of their
primary and complementary project objectives. Although the most important way for
Volunteers to enhance their development role is to participate in the daily life of their
communities, PC/G recognizes that PCVs may occasionally need to leave their project
sites to work in other communities. Work-related activities normally should occur within
a reasonable distance, no more than three hours away from the Volunteers project site.
PCVs occasionally have the opportunity to participate in work-related activities away
from their project sites. These activities often allow the volunteer to deepen and
broaden counterpart relationships and gain further insight into the context in which they
find themselves. Work-related activities are those so designated by PC/G and may
include, but are not limited to, the following:
Participating in professional activities with counterparts or community partners
Giving presentations in another neighboring community
Attending inaugurations, openings-closings, or other project-related ceremonies
within a reasonable distance
Participating by request from PC/G staff in training sessions or workshops
Meeting with another PCV to give or receive technical support or mentoring
Collaborating with another PCV on a Peace Corps project
Participating in a Committee, PAC or related meeting or activity
Attending non-medical appointments with PC/G staff, project partners, or other
agencies
Recent trends show that many Volunteers are being asked to support teams of foreign
medical professionals who come to Guatemala to offer their services for short term
missions. A limited amount of time engaged in translating for these groups can be
complementary to a Peace Corps Volunteers work. However, even this short term
partnership with another organization must be considered on a case by case basis in
order to minimize the risks to the safety of the Volunteer and the integrity of the Peace
Corps program. Volunteers wishing to participate in these activities are instructed
to read the related annex providing policy guidance prior to making a
commitment (see Annex on Medical Missions Policy Guidance).
Volunteers must request and receive approval by an appropriate PC/G authority for all
work-related activities that takes them away from their project site before engaging in or
committing themselves to the activity.

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1. A Volunteer must get approval from his/her PM/PTS for participating in a workrelated activity that requires them to be away from his/her site overnight.
2. The Volunteer should make a request by talking directly to the PM/PTS during
regular PC office hours or e-mailing the PM/PTS at least 5 workdays before
leaving the site.
3. A Volunteer must receive approval and not just request approval before leaving
his/her site on a work-related activity.
4. In the case of on-going activities, such as the participation on a Committee or
collaboration with another PCV on a long-term project, the Volunteer should
request and the PM may approve an on-going yet defined permission. In these
cases, the Volunteer only needs to request and receive permission for the specific
work-related activity once.
Whereabouts Notification is required if the Volunteer will be out of his/her project
site on a work-related activity overnight.
3. Transportation Policy
(See attachment)
4. Personal Emergencies / Matters
Volunteers may have personal or family emergencies while in Guatemala.
Emergencies that may occur are normally due to either a medical evacuation or a
family illness or death.
4.1 Medical Evacuation
This is defined as an illness or accident which would necessitate evacuation to the U.S.
or Panama for medical treatment. The Office of Medical Services (OMS) in
PC/Washington stipulates that PCVs may be evacuated to the U.S. or Panama for
medical treatment in the following situations:
1. Elective surgery of any consequence, unable to be performed in Guatemala
2. Difficult diagnostic problems
3. Cases requiring difficult treatment, especially if lengthy or possibly controversial
4. Difficult psychiatric/counseling issues
If the PC/G Medical Staff considers that one of the above situations exists, they will
consult with OMS about the possibility of medical evacuation for consultation and/or
treatment. A decision will be made including a determination of whether or not the PCV
should be accompanied and, if so, by whom. Volunteers may be medically evacuated to
Panama City, Panam; Washington, D.C; or the PCVs home of record (HOR). PCV
spouses will accompany their medevaced spouse only when OMS rules that this is
medically necessary.
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Evacuees will hand carry medical documentation related to their case. They will be
advanced a $32 per diem for 3 days and a travel advance to cover expenses. PCVs on
medical evacuation to Washington, D.C. or Panama will stay at a hotel designated and
paid for by PC. PCVs medically evacuated to their HOR will receive the same per diem.
PCVs with family or friends in the D.C. area may request approval to stay with them
during the evacuation.
4.2 Family Illness or Death
This is defined as a serious illness or operation of a member of ones immediate family
or a death in the immediate family (the PC Manual defines immediate family as son,
daughter, parent, sibling or person functioning in a parental role to the Volunteer).
In order to save time in emergency family situations, Volunteers should advise their
immediate families that in serious emergencies the following procedure must be initiated
immediately:
1. Call PC/Washington: (202) 692-1470 or 1-800-424-8580, Ext. 1470, Counseling and
Outreach Unit (COU), during business hours. Alternatively, outside of business
hours call the Peace Corps Washington Answering Service: (301) 790-4749.
2. Advise the Duty Officer in charge in the COU (someone is on call 24 hours a day,
seven days a week) of the exact nature of the emergency. Because PC/W will have
to verify the seriousness of the situation with the attending physician, in the interest
of saving time it is advisable that the attending physician makes the first call to the
COU Duty Officer to inform Peace Corps of the emergency.
3. Give the attending officer all relevant information so that a decision can be made by
the COU staff as to whether emergency travel may be authorized for the
Trainee/Volunteer.
As soon as the exact nature of the emergency has been verified, the COU staff will call
or contact the Country Director either authorizing emergency travel, authorize the PCV
to place a long distance telephone call at PC expense, or ask that the CD or their
designee inform the PCV of the nature of the emergency.
Precisely for this purpose, it is important that, as a Trainee, you fill out completely the
Emergency Information form provided by PC/G, including parents home address and
telephone number.
If travel to the U.S. is authorized, PC/G staff will immediately make the necessary travel
arrangements. Usually you will be issued a round-trip plane ticket, be given $12 per
day for up to 14 days of Emergency Leave, and up to 4 days travel time at the rate of
$12/day. When your estimated time of arrival in the U.S. has been established, the
Country Director or their designee will inform the COU so that your family can be
contacted and informed of your arrival.

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Upon arrival in the U.S., PCVs must contact the Counseling and Outreach Unit (COU)
direct telephone line or toll-free number to advice of whereabouts and probable length
of stay. If circumstances require a stay exceeding 14 days, the COU Duty Officer must
be notified in order to determine whether leave can be extended. If PCVs have Annual
Leave time which has not been taken, the days taken beyond the 14 days of
Emergency Leave can be charged against Annual Leave. Otherwise, Leave Without
Allowance (LWOA) status up to a maximum of 14 days may be requested. No per diem
is paid by PC beyond the 14th day.
4.3 Visitors
Friends and family members are welcome in Guatemala, and it is likely that some of
them will be able to visit you in your site to experience your Guatemala. However,
visitors can distract your attention from your work and may place burdens on your
relationships with counterparts and host family. The duties of entertaining and taking
care of your visitors health and safety can present challenges to you. Peace Corps
does not provide medical care or other support to your visitors if they are not current
Volunteers.
When visitors are briefly in your site (up to 5 days) you do not need to request Annual
Leave, as long as you are fully engaged in your community and honor your work
responsibilities.
If visitors wish to stay longer than 5 days in your site, you must inform your
Program Manager and obtain prior written authorization. If you do not maintain
your work schedule, or your visitor stays in your site more than 5 days, or you
travel outside your site with a visitor for a trip that is longer than 3 days of
personal leave, then you must request Annual Leave.
4.4 Cohabitation
Cohabitation means living together with another person in an intimate relationship.
Peace Corps discourages cohabitation by unmarried Volunteers due to the conservative
cultural norms of Guatemala.
PC/G considers that visits of less than 5 days from friends in the U. S. do not constitute
cohabitation. Visits lasting longer than this or a series of visits over an extended period
constitute cohabitation for the purpose of this policy.
4.5 Paternity
Volunteers do not have diplomatic immunity and, therefore, are subject to Guatemalan
paternity laws. In a paternity case involving a PCV, the volunteer is obligated to make
the necessary arrangements to fulfill any financial or other obligations to the mother and
child as dictated by Guatemalan law and/or custom. This should be done through a
formal written agreement. The Country Director will determine if a Volunteer has
satisfactorily met their responsibilities in this regard before permitting that person to
leave the country.

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4.6 Marriage
Any PCV wishing to marry and to continue their PC service must obtain the written
approval of the Country Director before entering into marriage. PCVs must consult with
their Program Managers well before a marriage is scheduled. The Program Managers
then have the responsibility of determining whether a PCVs proposed marriage will
adversely affect job performance and, after careful consideration, will make a
recommendation to the Country Director. The Country Director, or the DPT, will then
discuss the prospective marriage with the PCV to establish that there is a full
understanding of job and financial implications. The Country Director normally will
authorize marriages only in the last six months of the Volunteers service. Details on
this procedure can be found in the Annex on Marriage.
Procedures regarding PCV marriages are not meant to interfere with a PCVs right to
marry or choice of a spouse. They intend to ensure that a proposed PCV marriage will
not impair the PCVs ability to perform their job and complete their service satisfactorily.
A PCV, who marries without written approval from the CD, or despite the Country
Directors decision that the marriage will preclude the PCVs continued effective service,
will be administratively separated.
4.7 Pregnancy
All Volunteers considering having a child will discuss the matter with the Country
Director and PC Medical Officer. In accordance with established Peace Corps policy,
the Director and Medical Officer must consider health hazards, prospects for continued
effective service, and plans for supporting a family while in active service. If the outlook
is not favorable from these points of view, PC policy states that the Volunteer(s) will
usually be permitted to resign or, in the case of female PCVs, be medically separated.
PC assignments in Guatemala are almost exclusively rural. Health facilities in these
areas are generally modest and therefore are not considered suitable for Volunteers to
give birth or to have access to an appropriate standard of health care for newborn
children. With poor infrastructure and unreliable transportation, quick access to suitable
health facilities in Guatemala City is not possible. In addition to a lack of health facilities
for mother and child, the amount of attention that an infant requires considerably curtails
the time that a mother, and/or father, can devote to their PC service.
The health and wellbeing of both mother and child, along with consideration of
continued effective service are taken in account for these situations. Therefore, in the
consultation with the Country Director and the Medical Officer, Volunteers involved in
pregnancies might be told that their PC service will not be continued. The timing of a
Volunteers resignation or medical separation will be at an early stage of pregnancy so
as to permit sufficient time for relocation to and within the US prior to the childs birth.
Male PCVs that terminate service are responsible for all maternity related expenses
after their termination date. Federal Employment Compensation Act (FECA) benefits do
cover prenatal, labor and delivery and one post-natal visit expenses if the mother of the
child is an ex-PCV who became pregnant during her service. FECA does not cover any

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expenses for the baby (i.e. pediatrician and nursery charges). In the case of a nonvolunteer spouse, FECA does not cover any expenses for either mother or child after
the termination date of the PCV.
4.8 Abortion
Married or single Volunteers who are considering terminating a pregnancy will be
provided guidance and counseling upon request by the Peace Corps Medical Officer
(PCMO). If a decision has been made to terminate the pregnancy, the PCV will be
medically evacuated to Washington, D.C. or the PCVs Home of Record (abortion is
illegal in Guatemala). If a PCV opts for an abortion, the procedure will be carried out at
her own expense. However, a withdrawal may be made from the PCVs Readjustment
Allowance to finance the abortion. Peace Corps will pay for complications arising as a
result of an abortion, but not for any medical expenses directly related to the procedure.
The 1979 Peace Corps Appropriations Bill prohibits the expenditure of any funds for
abortions. No exceptions - even in situations such as rape, incest or when the mothers
life is threatened - can be made. The Congress made this revision in policy despite
Peace Corps objection.
A PCV who has had an abortion may return to duty when it is medically advisable and
when medical clearance is granted by OMS. Any PCV who undergoes more than one
abortion during PC service may be medically separated; the final decision is made by
the Office of Medical Services.
5. Leave
5.1 Annual Leave Philosophy
PC/G believes in the commitment of Volunteers to their project and the organizations
and community members with whom they work. Based on this belief, PC/G expects all
Volunteers to dedicate their time and effort to the Guatemalans they have come to
serve in their respective project locations. PC/G sees the PCVs service as the primary
focus, with vacation time as a complimentary activity. Annual Leave provides
Volunteers the opportunity to explore and better understand their host country and its
culture, while allowing time for rest and relaxation.
PC/G emphasizes the importance of PCVs understanding the implications of taking
vacation and the need for PCVs to utilize these opportunities with care and
professionalism. One of the most frequently heard complaints by Guatemalans of some
PCVs is that they come and go from their project locations as they please, all too
frequently, and without the approval of their counterpart organization. Whether this is
true in all cases or not, it is the perception in many cases. It is a perception that reflects
poorly on volunteers and the Peace Corps alike. Such perceptions can be diminished
by responding with the appropriate level of professionalism and by following the criteria
and parameters outlined below.

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5.2 Criteria and Parameters for Taking Annual Leave

Volunteers accrue two leave days per month, or 24 days per year of service.
To ensure that annual leave is an integral part of a Volunteer's service, annual leave is
discouraged during the beginning or end of service, and therefore cannot be taken
during the first three months or last two months of service, except when the
Country Director approves leave under special circumstances, or in conjunction with an
authorized emergency leave.
5.2.1 Leave Authorization
Vacation plans must complement the Volunteer's work schedule and be approved by
the Guatemalan supervisor and PM.
PCVs should discuss the most appropriate time to take vacation with their
agency Supervisor and their PM before making vacation plans. If the PM is not
available, PCVs should consult with the PTS.
Once approval from your agency and PM is secured, a written request should be
submitted and signed by both of them to be forwarded onto PC/G. Always check
ahead of time with your PTS or PA to ensure you have the days necessary for
your planned leave.
Contact/destination information must be complete before PC approval can be
given. An example vacation request form can be found in Annex, Solicitud de
Vacacin.
All vacation must be approved at least 15 days before departure. That is to say,
all vacation requests must be approved by the Volunteers agency Supervisor
and received by the PC office at least 15 days in advance of the planned
vacation for your PMs review and consideration. This requirement is especially
true for request for annual leave outside of Guatemala.
Each time a PCV returns from vacation, they must call or notify the PC office by
the day the approved vacation period ends, otherwise vacation days will continue
to be deducted. PCVs should notify their PM, PTS or the SSC upon return.
Volunteers must notify the Peace Corps office if health, money, transportation problems,
or other unforeseen circumstances prevent them from returning on time. This allows
Peace Corps staff to know where PCVs are in case of an emergency, and to advise
contacts in your site and the counterpart organization of your delay.
5.2.2 Annual Leave Calculation
When annual leave is taken within the Volunteer's country of assignment, host country
holidays are not counted in computing annual leave days (see Annex on Holidays). All
weekends and U.S. holidays that fall within the annual leave period are counted in
computing annual leave days. When friends or relatives are visiting the Volunteer in
their site, the PCV must continue with a normal work program, otherwise, this time will
be counted as vacation time. Long-term stays of friends or relatives in your site (over
three weeks) are strongly discouraged and must be approved by your PM.

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Vacations are limited to a maximum of 21 consecutive days away from site. It has been
determined that longer absences can have detrimental effects on your work, and inhibit
effectiveness in your community.
Other days when your host country agencies are closed (i.e. school vacations, local
holidays or ferias, etc.) are not to be counted or taken as official PC holidays. Plan
ahead to identify projects you would like to work on during those periods. It is the
perfect opportunity to put your creativity and particular talents to work in a way that will
support your primary project goals, as well as promote Peace Corps second goal of
cross-cultural exchange. Examples of appropriate activities during these times could
include: cooking or music classes, organizing a community soccer tournament, painting
a mural with a youth group, a river clean-up event---its up to you to decide. Your PM,
PTS training staff, and other Volunteers can give you ideas and support.
5.3 Annual Leave Outside of Guatemala
Annual leave must be taken any time a Volunteer travels outside of Guatemala for
vacation purposes. Annual leave for out-of-country travel is computed in terms of
calendar days, including weekends and host country and U.S. holidays. The day after
departure from the country of assignment through the day of return to the country of
assignment are counted as annual leave days. The computation of annual leave days
does not include the necessary minimum time to travel between the Volunteer's site and
the point of exit out of the country of assignment.
Annual leave abroad must be approved by the host country agency supervisor and the
PM as in the case of all annual leave and in addition must be approved by the Safety
and Security Coordinator (SSC) as delegated by the PC/G Country Director. If leave is
taken in a country or countries with a PC presence, the SSC will coordinate with SSCs
in the post to review the safety of the PCVs planned itinerary, warn the PCV to avoid
off-limits areas, send a copy of the PCVs itinerary to the post and provide the PCV with
emergency contact numbers and Transportation Policies for the PC posts to be visited.
When you travel to another Peace Corps country, follow these steps in order to ensure
you comply with the regulations:
1. You are responsible for following the restrictions on travel destinations of the post in
that country. In addition, the Country Director/SSC shall inform the CD/SSC in the
country of destination that you will be traveling in his or her country on the dates
specified.
2. You are responsible for reviewing the transportation policy of that Peace Corps post
prior to traveling. Both the PS and SSC will assist you in obtaining a copy of that
policy.
3. You are responsible for checking with your PCMO regarding health matters in
countries/ locations being visited.
Volunteers who travel outside the country without authorization, either in conjunction
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with approved vacation (such as leaving early or returning late) or otherwise, are subject
to administrative separation.
5.3.1. International Travel
Just as Peace Corps requires that Volunteers adhere to the transportation policies of
their country of service while they are in their assigned country, PCVs on official travel
or personal leave to another post outside of their country of service must adhere to that
post's transportation policies. Volunteers are also responsible for following the
restrictions on travel destinations of the post in the country being visited. PC/Guatemala
staff will assist you in obtaining the policies of your destination country.
PCVs should avoid changing money at border crossings, especially large amounts (over
$200). There are indications that money changers share this information with criminals
who then target travelers within Guatemala for armed robbery.
Exercise judgment and personal responsibility to protect your health, safety,
and well-being, and that of others.
5.4 PCV Events
PCVs sometimes organize events to which a training group, sector or entire PCV
community is invited. These events are not sponsored by PC/G and leave must be
requested. In planning PCV Group events, a written plan for any event involving more
than 7 PCVs will be submitted beforehand to PC/G for reasons of safety and security
(see Annex on Planning of Volunteer Group Events).
5.5 Adventure Sports (Revised March 2013)
Adventure Sports are activities perceived as having a considerable level of inherent
danger. Volunteers and Trainees must consult with the SSC before undertaking any
extreme adventure sport activities (i.e. rafting, scuba diving, rock climbing,
kite/wind/board surfing, repelling, trekking, mountain biking, hiking active volcanoes,
etc.) and must only engage in such activities with expert guidance and in strict
compliance with the highest international safety standards of the sport. Engaging in
extreme adventure sports activities must not impede with the Volunteers primary
purpose of service, community integration, program goals or project work in his/her site.
Extended time required for travel to/from and practice of such sports requires
appropriate request and approval of annual leave (for SCUBA diving, see Annex on
Adventure Sports - SCUBA).
5.6 First Aid and Provision of Medical Care
Although First Aid Training is an important aspect of health promotion and injury/illness
prevention, it is essential that Volunteers refrain from participating in direct health care
activities that may place them at risk for exposure to blood or body fluids. These
activities include, but are not limited to, participating in immunization programs,
attending or otherwise assisting with childbirths, performing phlebotomy or other
medical procedures, and insertion of intravenous catheters (see Annex on First Aid and
Provision of Medical Care).

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5.7 Restrictions on Volunteer Travel Destinations

The Peace Corps is responsible for the health and safety of Volunteers throughout their
service. In furtherance of significant governmental interests, such as ensuring the
health and safety of V/Ts, posts may restrict travel overseas to a particular destination
for V/Ts on leave.
At the time you request approval for leave, you must inform the CD of your planned
travel destinations and receive prior approval from the CD before going on leave.
Country Directors may deny V/T travel to a particular destination when:
1. Travel to the destination would pose a serious risk to the health of the PCV or
others, as determined by the PCMO and the Office of Medical Services (OMS)
2. Based on State Department travel warnings or public announcements, or other
reliable information, that travel to the destination would pose a significant risk to the
safety and security of the V/T as determined by the CD (for areas where the State
Department has issued a travel restriction, the CD must deny travel to the restricted
area.)
3. Based on Special Travel Notices that have been issued by Peace Corps posts to
provide guidance about Volunteer travel.
4. Other significant governmental interests are involved
Examples of vacation requests that Country Directors should not approve include
requests to destinations that are:
In the midst of a national disaster (flooding, hurricanes, earthquakes, political
violence, etc.)
Experiencing the outbreak of a potential pandemic (e.g. SARS or Avian
Influenza) that would put the volunteer or others he/ she may come in contact
with at risk
When the PCMO at post advises the CD that the requested travel would pose a
serious risk to the health of the PCV
Before travelling consult the Annex on Areas Limited or Prohibited for PCV Travel.
Time tested tips when planning a vacation:
Do not pay for a vacation before you get authorization!
Do not make reservations that must be paid for quickly!
5.8 Other types of Leave
5.8.1 Professional or Educational Leave
Volunteers who leave their sites for exams or interviews relating to post-service
activities, or to make presentations related to the Peace Corps third goal can request
leave through their PM and the DPT, and may be authorized up to three days
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professional or educational leave. During this time the living allowance and
readjustment allowance will continue but no other allowances will be paid or authorized.
Examples of such exams are LSAT, MCAT, GRE, and the Foreign Service Exam. Any
absence beyond three days will be charged to annual leave.
5.8.2 Special Leave
Special Leave is available to those Volunteers who have finished two years of Peace
Corps service and are extending their service for at least one year in Guatemala or are
transferring/extending to another country for that period. Special Leave consists of 30
days in addition to normal accrued vacation leave. Volunteers extending for less than
12 months are not eligible for Special Leave. If, at the end of the six months, PCVs
realize that another six months are needed to complete works already begun, they are
entitled to Special Leave. Special Leave is only taken every two years, prior to another
extension of no less than 13 months.
5.8.3 Leave Without Allowance (LWOA)
LWOA is reserved for exceptional circumstances that require a T/V to be absent from
their training or project site for personal reasons. LWOA is not to be used to extend the
vacation limit beyond the 21 consecutive day maximum. LWOA absences for up to 30
days can be approved at the discretion of the Country Director. The Country Director's
decision must be based on a determination that a Trainee's absence will not adversely
affect their training, or that a Volunteer's absence will not adversely affect the
Volunteer's project unduly or Peace Corps' effectiveness in the host country. In all
circumstances, PCVs must first solicit LWOA from their PM who makes a
recommendation for consideration to the CD. While on LWOA status, PCVs receive no
allowances or readjustment allowance accruals. The monthly living allowance is
discontinued except for amounts needed to meet on-going expenses at the project site
such as the rent or an electric bill. All LWOA must be approved by the Country Director.
6. Termination/Extension of Service
Service in the Peace Corps is voluntary, but once the commitment to serve is made,
expectations are created on the part of the Peace Corps and the host country. By
accepting enrollment, Volunteers commit themselves to serve the people of the host
country for two years. The Peace Corps, for its part, commits itself to select those
Volunteers who have the capacity and motivation for effective service, to train them
properly, to place them where their abilities and skills can be utilized and to support their
activities to the extent feasible.
Early Termination (ET) of a Trainee or Volunteer can be voluntary (resignation) or
involuntary (Administrative Separation). All Early Terminating Trainees and Volunteers
are required to return to their HOR within 72 hours after departing post. The Peace
Corps passport must be returned to PC/Washington within 14 days.

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6.1 Definitions of Early Termination

6.1.1. Resignation: There are times during Peace Corps service when PCVs consider
resigning. Reasons may include issues related to assignment, cultural adaptation,
chronic poor health, issues back at home, etc. Just as entering Peace Corps service is
taken seriously and a decision made over an extended period of time, resignation from
service should be taken with the same careful considerations. We recommend that if
you are thinking of resigning that you discuss your issues and feelings with a friend, PC
staff member, or other person whose opinion you value. Allow time to help soften the
edges. We know from experience that PCVs often resign due to the last straw - when
too many small issues have gone unresolved. Having worked with PCVs for many
years we welcome the opportunity to lend a confidential ear of support during difficult
and confusing times.
If all possibilities are exhausted and resignation is decided, you must inform your PM or
DPT. S/he, along with the DMO, CD and PCMO, will lead you through the process and
travel arrangements to get you to your HOR as soon as possible.
PCV/PCT resignation does not require disclosure of reasons for resignation.
6.1.2 Medical Separation: If a Trainee or Volunteer develops a medical condition that
Peace Corps cannot medically accommodate or resolve within 45 days, the PCV/T will
be medically separated. This decision is made by the Office of Medical Services (OMS)
in consultation with the Peace Corps Medical Officer and, if needed, appropriate
medical consultants.
6.1.3 Administrative Separation: Administrative Separation is a determination by the
Peace Corps that, in the interest of all concerned, a Volunteer or Trainee should not
continue their Peace Corps service. The CD has final authorization to administratively
separate a PCV/T. Grounds for Administrative Separation include violation of any policy
including the following, but not limited to:
Failure to meet Trainee selection standards.
Fraud, deception, intentional false statement, or material omission in obtaining
selection to the Peace Corps.
Any conduct or pattern of behavior that presents a reasonable possibility of injury
or physical harm to the Volunteer, Trainee or others, including but not limited to:
Violation of Whereabouts notification.
Refusal to take required vaccinations or medical prophylaxes.
Refusal or failure to follow PCMO instructions.
Violation or abuse of Peace Corps/Guatemalas Alcohol Policy.
Any conduct or pattern of behavior during Peace Corps service which
substantially diminishes the Volunteers effectiveness as a Peace Corps
Volunteer or which, in the judgment of the CD, would have a serious adverse
impact on the Peace Corps country program, including but not limited to:
Use of illegal drugs.
Involvement in intelligence gathering activities.
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Arrest or conviction of any criminal offense.

Unsatisfactory work performance.
Unauthorized absence from work, training or other assigned sites,
including unauthorized travel to a third country.

The process for an Administrative Separation is as follows:

a) When considering Administrative Separation for a Volunteer, the CD will inform
the Volunteer orally or in a brief of the grounds for the separation and the
information in support of those grounds. The CD will inform the Volunteer of the
option to resign at any time before a final Administrative Separation decision is
made;
b) If, after considering the Volunteer's response, the CD decides to separate the
Volunteer, the CD may do so only with the concurrence of the Regional Director.
In order to ensure an informed concurrence, the CD will provide the Regional
Director, either orally or in writing, with the reasons for the CD's decision;
c) If the Regional Director concurs, the CD will inform the Volunteer of the final
decision to administratively separate the Volunteer and will give the Volunteer an
opportunity to resign within 24 hours, in lieu of being administratively separated.
If the Volunteer does not resign within 24 hours, the CD will sign and provide to
the Volunteer a written notification that he or she has been separated from
service pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2504(i);
d) If the Volunteer resigns in lieu of Administrative Separation, the CD will forward
to the Office of Volunteer Recruitment and Selection (VRS) a memo that states
that the Volunteer resigned in lieu of being administratively separated, and sets
out the grounds for the action and the information in support of those grounds.
These procedures may be expedited under exceptional circumstances as
determined by the CD in consultation with the applicable Regional Director and, if
feasible, Office of General Council.
6.1.4 Interrupted Service: A Volunteer may be separated with interrupted service if the
CD determines that circumstances beyond the control of the Volunteer make it
necessary to leave his or her assignment. This is not to be considered in lieu of
Administrative Separation because circumstances are beyond the control of the
Volunteer. A Volunteer may seek reinstatement or re-enrollment to Peace Corps
service or may seek transfer to another country, provided the CD endorses the request.
Interrupted Service may be appropriate if:
The Volunteer is unable to meet technical or language requirements in current
assignment but the CD recommends future volunteer service.
A Volunteer no longer meets the requirements in MS 201 due to changes in
legal, marital or other circumstances beyond the Volunteers control.
There is no viable assignment in the country for which the Volunteer is qualified.
The host country (or other cooperating agency to which the Volunteer is
assigned) requests that the Volunteer be removed from service for reasons that
would not constitute grounds for administrative separation.

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A Volunteers spouse has been medically separated, administratively separated

or separated with interrupted service and the Volunteer is not subject to
Administrative Separation.
There are circumstances in the country beyond the Volunteers control that
endanger the Volunteer.
6.2 Completion of Service (COS)
Prior to your COS date, PC Guatemala will host a mandatory COS conference. At the
COS Conference detailed information is provided, in the form of a COS handbook, in
preparation for the Volunteers Close of Service. Volunteers also receive all required
forms to be completed. At COS (up to three days before departure from Guatemala), all
Volunteers are required to have a medical exam, complete the Description of Service,
account for any PC Guatemala property and funds, and complete other administrative
and programming details included on the COS Checklist.
At the COS conference, usually held 60-90 days prior to COS, Volunteers make the
choice of receiving:
1. An economy ticket directly from Guatemala City to HOR and all related money for
transportation to the airport and per diem or;
2. Cash-in-lieu by Electronic transfer to an account in the U.S., equal to the value of
a ticket and 2 bags totaling 80 pounds. If you choose cash-in-lieu Peace Corps
will not pay any expenses due to flight delays, cancellations or lost tickets. Once
you take the cash-in-lieu, you are responsible for all transportation home.
At the time of COS, note these important details:
1. Peace Corps will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to personal effects
sent home. Volunteers should obtain personal effects insurance.
2. The Peace Corps Medical Officer will authorize physical and dental exams upon
COS. Volunteers should check to see that all service-related injuries or illnesses
are documented.
3. A Personal U.S. passport must be used for travel beyond 90 days of COS.
6.2.1 Returning PC Guatemala Property
Items provided by Peace Corps are U.S. Government property and must be returned to
Peace Corps at COS. PCVs are responsible for any loss or damage beyond normal
wear and tear, and must reimburse PC Guatemala at the time of completing service.
6.2.2 Official Close of Service Date
The projected Close of Service date for Volunteers is two years after the PCVs
Swearing-in date. Certain circumstances may prompt Volunteers to request a COS
date that is different from the one that has been set for their group. This request may
be for either an early COS or for an extension of service.

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6.3 Early COS

The Country Director is authorized to advance a Volunteers COS to a date more than
23 months after the Volunteers oath date. If the Country Director decides that, in
accordance with Peace Corps regulations, a Volunteers COS date should be advanced
to a date between 21 months and 23 months after the Volunteers oath date, the CD will
forward the request to the Regional Director. The Regional Director will either approve
or deny the request. Peace Corps Manual Section 281 contains criteria that the CD
must take into account in making the recommendation for an Advanced COS date. The
criteria for early COS include the following:
1.

Programmatic impact
Whether the Volunteer will have completed his/her primary responsibilities.
Whether the Volunteer will have completed his/her secondary responsibilities.
Whether host country officials concur with advancing the Volunteer's COS date.

2.

Emergency leave and medical evacuation

Peace Corps will normally advance the COS date of a Volunteer who begins an
emergency leave or a medical evacuation within 90 days of his/her established
COS, unless the CD determines that there are compelling programmatic reasons for
returning the Volunteer to the host country.

3.

Master's International
Program CD are encouraged to work with Volunteers who are participating in the
Peace Corps Master's International (MI) Program to establish a COS date that will
allow them to bring their primary and secondary responsibilities to completion in time
to fulfill remaining MI academic requirements (e. g., a program that requires
completion of a final semester of study, scheduled to begin prior to the projected
COS date). Upon request by the Country Director, the University Programs
Coordinator (in VRS/OPS/MNRI) will verify the date when an MI Volunteer needs to
return to his/her university and the academic impact of delaying the Volunteer's COS
beyond that date.

6.3.1 Non-Competitive Eligibility

Individuals who serve satisfactorily as Peace Corps Volunteers are eligible for noncompetitive appointment to the competitive service and to establish merit systems in the
excepted service of U.S. government executive branch agencies including the Peace
Corps for a period of one year after the completion of their service. The Peace Corps
personnel system is an established merit system in the excepted service for purposes of
non-competitive eligibility. The Peace Corps will extend the one-year period up to a
maximum of three years in those cases where the RPCV is engaged in military service,
in the pursuit of studies at a recognized institution of higher learning, or in other
activities, such as volunteer programs, that, in the view of the Peace Corps, warrant the
extension.
"Serve satisfactorily" means successful completion of a full term of service or
completion of at least one year of service, including training, and termination of service
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for reasons beyond the control of the individual. See MS 285, "Volunteer Description of
Service Statement and Certificate of Group Health Coverage," paragraph 3.0. Noncompetitive appointment is discretionary with the appointing official. Its use is not
mandatory.
6.4 Extension of Service
A Volunteer whose continued service is desired by the host country may request
permission to extend service by submitting a written request to the CD. The request
should be made between two and four months before the established COS date. Peace
Corps Manual Section 281 lists the criteria the CD will apply in determining the
appropriateness of the extension, including the following:
PCVs unique importance to the total program and overall benefit to the
community.
PCVs motivation in seeking extension.
PCVs quality of service to date including consistent support of PC policies and
programs.
Medical clearance by PCMO.
Extensions are not automatic; each request will be evaluated on its own merit and
based on PC Guatemalas programming needs and budget limitations. An extension
request should be discussed first with the PM and DPT, but the Country Director
provides the final approval.
6.4.1 Extension Home Leave
Volunteers who extend for 12 months or more of additional service in the same or
another country are entitled to 30 days of home leave (special leave). Volunteers are
expected to take their leave as soon as possible after completion of the original term of
service. Volunteers will not be permitted to take home leave during the last three
months of the extension period. A Volunteer may, with the written approval of the
Country Director and the concurrence of host country officials, begin special leave
within the last 60 days before her or his original COS date.
Time used for home leave is in addition to the extension service period; so 30 days of
home leave and a one-year extension totals 13 months of additional service beyond the
original COS date.
A Volunteer can use up to 15 days of advanced annual leave in conjunction with 30
days home leave for a total of 45 days special leave. Volunteers wishing to travel to a
location other than HOR for special leave can be issued a ticket to another destination
up to the value of a 45-day excursion airfare to his/her home-of-record. Volunteers
cannot be given cash in lieu of a ticket for special leave travel.
A Volunteer who does not take special leave within the allowable timeframe forfeits
his/her right to any special leave allowances or airline tickets issued for travel in
conjunction with that special leave.

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6.4.2 Special Leave Allowance

Special leave allowance of $12.00 a day for special leave can be taken up to 30 days
for a maximum of $360. The living allowance continues to be paid during periods of
special leave.
6.4.3 Early Termination after receiving an Extension of Service
The grant of special leave is based on a Volunteers commitment to a minimum 12month extension (totaling 13 months with the one month of Special Leave). Volunteers
who fail to fulfill the full 12-month commitment will be considered an early terminating
Volunteer and forfeit any right to special leave. If special leave has already been taken,
the Volunteer may be required to refund money for the home leave ticket and
allowances.
6.4.4 Termination during Extension Leave
If an extending Volunteer, for reasons within the PCVs control, terminates service
during special leave taken immediately after completion of the initial tour of service, or
fails to resume service after completing this leave, the Volunteer will be considered a
COS-ed Volunteer. Volunteers terminating under these circumstances are responsible
to the Peace Corps for allowances granted or held for them during special leave in
anticipation of return to duty, except the cost of the airfare to HOR. The PCV must
return unused plane tickets provided by Peace Corps.
6.4.5 Extension as a PCVL
A PCVL has a work assignment, developed with the PM, but also has a leadership role
in the Volunteer community, serving as a role model for other Volunteers. The specific
PCVL job description may be an outgrowth of the work of the first 2 years of service. It
may be a pilot project, the development of a specific aspect of the technical project, or it
may emphasize mentoring and volunteer support, both in site and during PST and ISTs.
PCVL extensions, in addition to being approved by PC/G, must be approved by PC/W.
A PCVL can play an important role and is a fulfilling way to contribute to PC and
Guatemala.
6.4.6 Changes to Home of Record
All Volunteers have an official HOR, which is a U.S. address kept on file by PC
Guatemala and Peace Corps Washington, D.C. Usually the HOR is a permanent
address taken from documentation submitted during or prior to Staging. The HOR is
defined as a PCVs place of permanent residence; PCVs may change their HOR only in
limited circumstances. Usually HOR means one of two places:
The residence at which the PCV was living at the time of entry into training.
The residence of a PCVs parent, sibling or child.
Volunteers wishing to change their HOR must submit this request to the DMO no later
than 60 days in advance of their projected COS date. The Counseling and Outreach
Unit in the Office of Volunteer Services in Washington, D.C. must approve changes to a
Volunteers HOR.

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A Volunteer interested in changing their HOR should review Peace Corps Manual
Section 219, which contains a statement of policy and the conditions under which a
Home-of-Record change may be approved.
Requests will normally be approved for the following reasons:
A Volunteer who has married another Volunteer wants to return to the HOR of the
spouse.
The next-of-kin with whom the Volunteer was living before entering Peace Corps
has moved to a different U.S. address.
When travel to the new HOR would cost less than travel to the originally declared
HOR.
Or when parents or children (referred to as next of kin above) have moved outside
of the U.S., a Volunteer may receive transportation to the most appropriate U.S.
port of entry.
7. Web Sites and Publications
Web Sites
Volunteers who create their own Web sites, or post information to Web sites that have
been created and maintained by others, should be reminded that, unless password
protected, any information posted on the Internet can be accessed by the general
public, even if that is not intended. Because search engines regularly index most sites
on the Internet, it is possible that members of the public could locate a Volunteer Web
site by searching for information about the Peace Corps or a certain country. This is
possible even if the Volunteer does not actively promote his/her Web site. Given these
realities, Volunteers are responsible for ensuring that their IT use is consistent with the
following guidelines:
Notification
Volunteers who create their own Web sites or post material to Web sites created
by others are responsible for discussing the content in advance with the Country
Director to ensure that the material is suitable and complies with this general
guidance as well as any country-specific guidance.
Disclaimer
Any web site maintained by a Volunteer during his or her Peace Corps service must
reflect the fact that it is not an official publication of the Peace Corps or the U.S.
Government. The site, therefore, must be labeled clearly and prominently with an
appropriate disclaimer such as: "The contents of this Web site are mine personally and
do not reflect any position of the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps."
Use of the Peace Corps Logo
Because use of the Peace Corps logo is reserved for official activities authorized by the
Peace Corps Act, the logo cannot be used on Volunteer Web sites.

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Cultural Sensitivity
The thoughtful and accurate insights that Volunteers convey in their communications
with others can contribute substantially to bringing to the United States a better
understanding of other countries. However, given the broad access to Volunteer-posted
material on the Web, both in their country of service and elsewhere, Volunteers should
remain culturally sensitive with respect to the material they post to any Web site.
Volunteers should be reminded that people in their host countries and members of the
U.S. public may make inferences about the Peace Corps or the Volunteer's country of
service based on the material a Volunteer posts to a Web site. Volunteer-posted
material on the Web should not embarrass or reflect poorly on the Peace Corps or the
countries where Volunteers serve.
Safety and Security
As a safety precaution, Volunteers must not include on their Web sites information
about their precise living location or those of other Volunteers, as well as information
about the location of events to be attended by a large number of Volunteers. For
example, Volunteers who live in remote areas should use care before placing the name
of their towns or villages on their Web site and, instead, should refer to the general area
of the country where they live. For their own protection, it is advisable not to provide
information about Volunteers' personal possessions. Volunteers should also be aware
of the risk of identity fraud and other security concerns connected with the posting of
any personal information about themselves, family members and others on Web sites.
Publication Policies
Consistent with Peace Corps' policy regarding publications, Volunteers may not accept
payment for anything they write or photograph that appears on the Web. Articles,
manuals, teaching materials, and other work-related products developed in connection
with Peace Corps service and/or financed by Peace Corps funds are considered part of
the public domain and may not be copyrighted or used for personal gain. Volunteers
should be advised that posting materials to the Internet, which they have not authored
or created, may violate U.S., host country, or other applicable copyright laws.
8. Projects, Fundraising and Donations
Volunteers often find that communities and/or agencies with which they work need
resources to implement projects. They will look to you for assistance with obtaining
these resources. Keep in mind that the main objective of Peace Corps is to be a
source of trained human resources, not financial resources. When a community
requires financial resources to accomplish their goals, a Volunteer supports their
community through developing strategies for identifying local resources. Volunteers
then work with counterparts to design and implement projects using local funds. In
some cases it is considered necessary to supplement community or local government
funds with grants made through Peace Corps Small Grants program. Funds can be
solicited for community projects through USAIDs SPA program, the state departments
ECPA agreement, the Presidents Emergency Program for AIDS Relief (PEPFARVAST), or the Peace Corps Partnership Program. These funds offer a wide breadth of
opportunities. Peace Corps funding suite is only available to communities where a
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Volunteer is present. Volunteers can accompany communities and agencies in this

process but should never take the lead or do this alone. To clarify, our purpose is to
build capacity and avoid dependency.
Cash donations
Any cash donations from individuals or the U.S. private sector must be coordinated
through established Peace Corps programs within the PC/Washington Office of Private
Sector Initiatives (OPSI), such as the Peace Corps Partnership Program. Volunteers
should direct any interested donors to www.peacecorps.gov and to the Partnership
Program. Per the IRS, Peace Corps is a 170(c)1 organization. Donations to the Peace
Corps through PCPP or the Guatemala Country Fund are tax deductible to the fullest
extent of the law.
Gifts in Kind (books, sporting goods, school supplies, and other items)
Private donors may also wish to send books, sporting equipment, medical equipment,
and other items to you for your community. Donations to Volunteers are considered
donations to Peace Corps. These donations must pass through the appropriate
channels at post. Be sure to discuss this first with your PM. Always consider the time
and cost involved in importing items as well as the perception you may create by being
a source of free goods.
9. Administrative Matters
9.1 Mail and Packages
Volunteers should not have mail or packages sent to the Peace Corps office in Santa
Lucia Milpas Altas and Quetzaltenango. Mail and packages should be sent directly or as
close as possible to the PCVs site.
Each Volunteer has a mailbox in the Volunteer lounge. This mailbox is used to collect
internal PC mail, bank statements, letters, etc., for re-mailing to PCV sites. PC/G is not
responsible for the loss of any mail or other items placed in these boxes. Mail from
these mailboxes is sent to PCV sites monthly. PCVs should ensure that their Project
and Training Specialist and Program Managers have their correct mailing address.
When receiving packages while serving as a PCV, the easiest way to do so is to have
small low value packages mailed directly to PCV sites. Packages of a higher value or
with special items are often held at the Guatemalan Custom offices. In these cases the
PCV will generally receive a telegram from the Post Office informing them that a
package is being held at Customs and that a fee must be paid in order to receive the
package. The PCV should follow the instructions on the telegram to have the package
sent to their site and pay the appropriate fees. PCVs should not attempt to go to the
Customs offices in Guatemala City to pick up packages. In most cases PCVs will find
that it is better to avoid having objects that are likely to be held at Customs sent from
family and friends. Usually these objects are available for purchase within Guatemala
at reasonable costs. Sending valuable objects through the mail in Guatemala is

33 | P a g e

generally not suggested due to the high possibility of their theft or loss, for example:
laptops, cameras, and electronics in general.
On occasion, PCVs may have packages sent to them using a service such as FedEx or
UPS. These packages will generally only arrive to the PC Offices in Santa Lucia Milpas
Altas and Quetzaltenango, not to PCV sites. PCVs will also have to pay additional fees
in order to receive these packages. These fees are charged by the companies to cover
taxes and other costs. PCVs should generally avoid using these types of services due
to the high cost.
9.2 Shipment of Materials to Guatemala
PCVs may not import items for personal use on a duty free basis except upon first
entering Guatemala. Volunteers are not exempt from paying import duties on items
mailed or shipped to them from outside the country. Books and educational materials
usually are duty free. All shipments may be subject to Customs inspection. The
Customs procedure for obtaining items from abroad is often lengthy and the fees and
taxes often exceed the value of the materials shipped. PC cannot assist in getting
packages or other shipments released from Customs.
PCVs do not have permission to use DPO or Embassy mail services, unless they have
this right from a prior job (armed forces service, Foreign Service, etc.).
9.3 Identification and Health Documents
The PC identification card issued upon swearing-in identifies you as a Peace Corps
Volunteer. PCVs should carry it with them at all times.
The Word Health Organization Card (yellow card) is a record of immunizations. The
Peace Corps Office of Medical Services does not require that PCMOs maintain the
yellow card in a Volunteers Health Record. However, if Volunteers have one in their
possession upon arrival they can decide to hold onto the card, unless the Medical Office
requires it for the files. The WHO card proves that you have received specific
immunizations. It permits you to avoid additional immunizations upon re-entry into the
U.S. or when traveling to other countries.
9.4 Passport and Visas
PCVs are issued no-fee passports. It may be used for the duration of your PC service
and for travel up to 90 days after completion of service, except in countries where travel
by U.S. citizens has been restricted by the Department of State. Volunteers who
complete their full term of service may keep their Peace Corps passports until such time
as you apply for a new passport of any type. Upon requesting a new passport, the PC
passport must be cancelled before a new one can be issued.
Volunteers extending their service will have their no-fee passports revalidated.
Trainees/Volunteers who terminate early, other than those granted field exceptions to
the direct and immediate return rule, must return their No-Fee passports, stamped by

34 | P a g e

the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service, to the Counseling and Outreach Unit
(OHS/COU) in order to confirm direct and immediate return to the United States. Final
readjustment allowance payment will be made once the passport is received.
Your no-fee passport (including an entry stamp to Guatemala) should be easily
accessible to you at all times, as it is the only official identification document accepted
by Guatemalan authorities. Failing to have it might cause you to be considered an
undocumented alien in the country. Your PC ID card is useful for many purposes, but
not officially recognized. PC/G will keep a certified copy of your passport in the PC
office to assist with replacement of your no-fee passport if it is lost or stolen. Should
this occur, PCVs must notify PC immediately.
A certified copy of the first page of PCV Passport and Guatemalan visa will be given to
each PCV. The no-fee passport should be kept in a safe place at his/her home and
each PCV should carry a certified copy of their passport.
PCVs that also brought a personal passport with them cannot leave or re-enter the
country using this, as it is the no-fee passport which bears your visa and entry stamp.
PCVs are issued Guatemalan courtesy Visas valid for one-year continuous stays upon
arrival in Guatemala. The Visas must be extended for additional years. Failure to
extend Visas is illegal and a fine of Q.10.00 per day will be levied by the authorities
payable by the PCV. You must bring or send your passport to PC/G two weeks before
the Visas expiration date, as you are responsible for monitoring its being current.
9.5 Voting Assistance
In general election years, the Country Director will have Federal Post Card Applications
(FPCA) available for all PCVs. In many States the FPCA serves as an application for
both registration and the absentee ballot. Voting Information is also available in the
Peace Corps office during general election years, and will provide detailed voting
information for each state.
The FPCA must be completed by PCVs intending to vote. Some States require that the
U.S. Consulate certify signatures. If you wish, PC/G will pouch the completed FPCA to
the Voting Officer in PC/Ws Office of Volunteer Support for forwarding to a local
election board. In cases where time is critical, however, it is advisable to airmail the
FPCA directly to your election board.
Once a ballot is received, it should be completed and certified in the same manner as
the FPCA. Again, you may request PC/G to pouch the ballot to the PC/W Voting Officer
for distribution to your local election board. As an option, Volunteers may wish to send
ballots directly to their board.
The Absentee Ballot procedure should begin at least six months prior to the scheduled
election.

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10. Financial Responsibility

Volunteers are responsible for their personal finances. PC/G cannot assume
responsibility for checks returned due to insufficient funds, nor bank charges made as a
result of poor checkbook management. No extra or advanced payments will be made
by PC/G.
Volunteers may not engage in any activities for personal financial gain. Volunteers may
not work for additional income from any source.
10.1 NDEA Loan Moratorium
With the lending institutions written consent, a period of PC service not to exceed three
years will be excluded when computing the 10-year period normally allotted for
repayment of an NDEA loan. PCVs may apply for an NDEA loan moratorium on Form
OE-1120, Request for Deferment of Repayment because of... Peace Corps... Status.
This form is usually available at Staging, however it may be obtained from PC/G
Executive Secretary. Part I must be completed by PCVs and Part II by the Country
Director. PCVs must initiate the process and must complete a new OE-1120 each year.
10.2 Other Federally Insured Student Loans
Under the Higher Education Act of 1965, periodic payments of principal on federally
insured student loans may be delayed for a period of PC service not to exceed three
years. However, interest on such loans does accrue and must be paid during this
period. When repayment of principal is deferred, the period of PC service will be
excluded when computing the minimum or maximum period allowed for repayment.
PCVs must negotiate directly with the lending institution to arrange for a moratorium. If
the lending institution requires it, the Country Director will certify a Volunteers status.
10.3 Living Allowance
The Living Allowance includes provision for (a) housing, (b) utilities, (c) household
supplies, (d) clothing replacement, (e) food, (f) per diem and transportation, and (g)
incidental expenses.
Payment of $24.00 that corresponds to 2 days of annual leave, at $12.00 per day, is
also included in the monthly living allowance.
PC/G Living Allowances allow Volunteers to live according to the standards of the
people with whom they work. There are three Living Allowance categories. They are
based on the cost of living in different geographical areas. You will receive specific
details at time of your Swearing-In.
10.4 Settling-in Allowance
Upon being sworn in as Peace Corps Volunteer, each PCV receives Q 3,000 to cover
settling-in expenses and furnishings. This allowance is given only once; its purpose is
to assist new PCVs in paying initial expenses for modifying/furnishing a residence and
for initial work-related equipment. With the authorization of the Program Manager and

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the Country Director, an additional amount may be granted exclusively to improve the
security of ones residence.
10.5 Banking Arrangements
The principal bank used by PC/G is Banco Industrial. Upon arrival in Guatemala each
Volunteer must open a personal checking account at this bank and sign a Power of
Attorney authorizing PC/G to make deposits for Living Allowances, reimbursements,
etc. in their account. Prior to leaving Guatemala, each PCV must personally close the
account after ascertaining that all checks have been cleared thus making necessary
arrangements to cover those that have not. PC/G will provide the necessary forms.
PCVs may choose to open a second bank account at a bank in or near the site. Funds
can then be transferred from the Banco Industrial account into the second account by
depositing checks from Banco Industrial.
PCVs may open and maintain other bank accounts (checking, savings, etc.) as long as
they are not used for purposes (commercial or otherwise) that are incompatible with
Peace Corps goals. PCVs should register these accounts in their file, in case of
emergency departure from the country, so that someone may close their accounts.
Information to send money transfers to Banco Industrial from anywhere in the world:

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BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S.A.

DIVISION INTERNACIONAL
UNIDAD DE TRANSFERENCIAS
TRANSFERS INSTRUCTIONS
WHEN YOU NEED TO MAKE A WIRE TRANSFERENCE TO AN ACCOUNT IN BANCO
INDUSTRIAL, S. A. GUATEMALA, C.A. USING THE FEDWIRE SYSTEM OR SWIFT PLEASE
PROVIDE YOUR BANK THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCCIONS. PLEASE ADVISE YOUR BANK
TO LET US KNOW BY TELEX THE CREDIT TO OUR ACCOUNT AND THE NAME OF THE
FINAL BENEFICIARY IN GUATEMALA.
BANK:

CITIBANK N.A.
NEW YORK, N. Y. U.S.A.

VALUE DATE:
SWIFT:
FEDWIRE (ABA)
ROUTING
NUMBER

CITIUS33
021000089

ACCOUNT:
ACCOUNT NAME:

10954895
BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
GUATEMALA, C. A.
INDLGTGC

SWIFT:

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION OF THE FINAL BENEFICIARY

NAME:
ACCOUNT NUMBER AT BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BANK:
THE BANK OF NEW YORK N. T
NEW YORK, N. Y. U.S.A.
VALUE DATE:
SWIFT:
FEDWIRE (ABA)
ROUTING
NUMBER
ACCOUNT:
ACCOUNT NAME:
SWIFT:

IRVTUS3N
021000018

8033141875
BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
GUATEMALA, C. A.
INDLGTGC

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION OF THE FINAL BENEFICIARY

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NAME:
ACCOUNT NUMBER AT BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BANK:
WACHOVIA BANK
U.S.A.
VALUE DATE:
SWIFT:
FEDWIRE (ABA)
ROUTING
NUMBER
ACCOUNT:
ACCOUNT NAME:

PNBPUS3NNYC
026005092

SWIFT:

INDLGTGC

2000192002914
BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
GUATEMALA, C. A.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION OF THE FINAL BENEFICIARY

NAME:
ACCOUNT NUMBER AT BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BANK:
BANK OF AMERICA
MIAMI, FLA. U.S.A.
VALUE DATE:
SWIFT:
FEDWIRE (ABA)
ROUTING
NUMBER
ACCOUNT:
ACCOUNT NAME:

BOFAUS3M
026009593

1901466872
BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.
GUATEMALA, C. A.
SWIFT:
INDLGTGC
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION OF THE FINAL BENEFICIARY
NAME:
ACCOUNT NUMBER AT BANCO INDUSTRIAL, S. A.

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10.6 Currency Exchange

Guatemala has restrictions on currency exchange. Foreign currency must be sold to
local banks through authorized currency markets. Please check with the PC/G staff
before cashing Dollar checks, ordering transfers of funds from the U.S., or the purchase
of Dollars with Quetzales. Dealing on the black market is illegal.
10.7 U.S. Income Tax Payments
The following portions of the living allowance are taxable:
Clothing replacement
Recreation and entertainment
Transportation
Incidental expenses
Domestic help (laundry)
Vacation (Annual Leave Allowance) pay is also taxable.
addendum).

(See attached in admin

Federal Income Tax may also be deducted from the Readjustment Allowance. Request
from Admin Section.
Peace Corps will provide you with W-2 forms stating the amount that is taxable from
your Readjustment Allowance and amounts withheld if you had so requested.
10.8 FECA Coverage
Volunteers who are in the U.S. on leave are not covered by Federal Employees
Compensation Act for any illness or injury incurred in the U.S., unless clearly shown to
be on official business at that time. FECA does not cover dependent children.
Peace Corps will cover necessary medical care for any illness or injury that occurs
during leave time in the U.S. After completion of service, AfterCorps insurance covers
conditions that arose in the U.S. that are not deemed to be serviced related.
10.9 Readjustment Allowance
The Readjustment Allowance is a payment authorized by the Peace Corps Act to assist
returned Volunteers in their transition from Peace Corps Service to other endeavors. It
is not a deferred salary; thus, Volunteers are not entitled to receive or use this
allowance until completion of service, except as noted in the Peace Corps Manual.
Non-Volunteer spouses and dependents of Volunteers are not entitled to a
Readjustment Allowance. The Readjustment Allowance is set at $275 per month during
a Volunteers first full tour of service. The Readjustment Allowance is set at $275 per
month for Trainees. For Volunteers who extend their tour of service beyond 24 months
from their oath date, and for Peace Corps Response Volunteers, the rate is $375 per
month. The RA accrues from the date Trainees register at Staging until COS.
Monthly automatic deductions would include:

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1. FICA (Social Security) of 6.2% and Medicare 1.45%.

2. Peace Corps Group Life Insurance. This is automatic unless waived. The rate is
$ 2.19 (U.S.) per month for a $10,000 death benefit, non-convertible insurance
policy. Please fill form PC-863 along with the PC-1487 Registration form, this
form allows volunteer to waive the right to life insurance. If they do not complete
this form, a small fee for life insurance is deducted from their accumulated
readjustment allowance monthly. Please ask for these forms to Assistant to
CD/DPT.
Please note that above percentage may vary.
10.9.1 Withdrawals
Withdrawals may be made from your Readjustment Allowance for payment of certain
routine expenses, such as:
1. Family support, insurance premiums, loans and other obligations incurred prior to
PC training and service.
2. Payment of dental expenses not covered by Peace Corps.
3. Payment of unusual or other emergency expenses.
4. Payment of Federal Income Tax.
No withdrawals can be made during the final three months of service. A separate
request must be made for each withdrawal. Requests for withdrawals of more than
50% of the accrued RA will not be approved, except for dental expenses prior to training
and extraordinary circumstances. In-country withdrawals of up to $200 may be made in
unusual circumstances with the approval of the Country Director.
10.9.2 Allotments
A Volunteer may request that certain recurring expenses be paid monthly from funds in
the Readjustment Allowance account. These may include:
1. Family support
2. Insurance premiums
3. Loan payments
Experience shows that the time required for approval of either a withdrawal or an
allotment can vary from one to three months. You are responsible for advising the
receiving party that payments will not be immediate.

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10.9.3 Readjustment Allowance Payments to Terminating Volunteers

1. COSing Volunteers will receive 1/3 of their RA prior to departure from country.
2. COSing Volunteers not immediately returning to the U.S. may be advanced 1/3
of the amount of the RA accrued up to their departure date if requested
approximately three months prior to termination. (PC/Washington approval is
necessary).
3. Volunteer field terminees, terminees returning to Washington for consultation,
medically evacuated Volunteers and Port-of-Entry (POE) Volunteers may be
advanced $200 from the Readjustment Allowance account.
4. The remaining RA will be sent to Volunteers home of record about eight weeks
after termination.
10.9.4 Readjustment Allowance Payments to Extending Volunteers
Volunteers who extend their service for 12 months or more are entitled to receive 1/3 of
their RA upon departure for Special Leave. That advance, however, may not be used to
enhance your in-country standard of living.
10.10 Home of Record
Upon any type of termination PC/G provides economy class airfare by the most direct
route from Guatemala to the nearest PCVs Home of Record (HOR) airport.
10.10.1 Changes in Home of Record
Volunteers desiring a change in their Home of Record should submit a request on Form
PC440 to the Country Director no later than 60 days in advance of their scheduled
departure date. The Country Director will forward the request to the Office of Special
Services.
Requests will normally be approved when:
1. A Volunteer who has married another Volunteer wants to return to the spouses
Home of Record.
2. The next-of-kin with whom the Volunteer was living before entering the Peace
Corps has moved to a different U.S. address.
3. Travel to the new Home of Record would cost less than travel to the originally
declared HOR.
4. The next-of-kin referred to in 2 above has moved outside the U.S. In this case,
PCVs may receive transportation to the most appropriate U.S. port-of-exit.

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5. The Volunteer used a next-of-kins address only as a permanent mailing address,

but resided at and was provided transportation at Peace Corps expense from
another location and wishes to return to that original point of departure.
A change in HOR may also be approved by the Office of Special Services in unusual or
extraordinary cases with the prior approval of the Office of the General Counsel.
10.11 Lost and Stolen Property and Cash
General Observations:
The purpose of this policy is to clarify and guide the process of using PC/G funds to
assist PCV/Ts in replacing selected items of lost, damaged or stolen personal property
and/or cash. Peace Corps Country Directors are authorized to approve funds to
replace only those items that are absolutely essential for the continued health,
safety and service of PCV/Ts.
Documentation:
1. The PCV will relay the basic information about the incident (time, place, etc.)
within the shortest possible time frame following the event or its discovery to the
Duty Officer by telephone. Incidents may also be reported to the SSC by
telephone, in person or by email.
2 The PCV will fill out the Non-Evacuation V/T Property Claim form and/or the NonEvacuation V/T Cash Claim form (Addendums to this Handbook) depending on
whether property, cash or both were lost. The PCV may also request that these
forms be mailed, faxed or e-mailed to them from PC. These forms should be
given or sent to PC Administration. They will ensure that all required information
is correctly entered and forwarded to the Country Director for evaluation and a
final decision.
3. PCVs will give PC a copy of a police report (denuncia) from the National Civil
Police (PNC) in the following cases:
a. Where the value of reimbursable property and cash is over $350.00
b. Where the theft was accompanied by the loss of personal documents
(passport, etc.).
c. Where the theft included the loss of Peace Corps property.
d. Where the loss was accompanied by an act of aggression or violence
where prosecution of the assailant may be possible.
e. Any other cases at the discretion of the Country Director.
Items subject to Program Managers review and recommendation:
Because some items may be needed as part of a specific PCV work plan, they will be
considered for reimbursement only upon the written recommendation of the Program
Manager. Included in this category are such items as rolls of photographic or video
film, videos used for professional purposes, tools, etc.

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Reimbursement amounts and calculation formula:

Reimbursement for items other than cash will be made in amounts not to exceed the
average price in Guatemala for a medium-quality replacement item. Reimbursement for
stolen cash corresponding to living allowance will be made in Quetzales, proportionally
based on the date of the loss.
Replacement of cellular telephones:
Peace Corps Guatemala will provide PCVs with cellular telephones and air time for local
and international calls. PCVs will sign a contract stipulating they will return the phones
to Peace Corps in good working condition or will be responsible for the replacement of
such telephones. Replacement for lost or stolen cell phones will only be made by PC
when the PCV properly reports the incident to the Safety and Security Office. Only
one replacement of a cell phone will be made during a PCV's service.
Replacement of local debit cards (ATM cards):
The replacement of local debit cards provided to Volunteers is entirely the responsibility
of the Volunteer. The PCV may ask for assistance from PC administrative staff, but
reporting the card as stolen and getting a replacement must be done by the PCV
immediately. This can be done at the nearest branch of Banco Industrial or by calling
the following numbers for Banco Industrial:
1717 - 8:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m., 365 days a year.
2334-0824 - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
2420-3000 Ext. 1026 - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday (Bank hours).
2420-3000 Ext. 1024 - Departamento de Riesgo - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
During normal business hours there is staff that speaks English.
PCV personal property insurance:
PCVs are strongly encouraged to purchase insurance coverage for valuable personal
property while in Guatemala. This type of coverage provides protection from theft, loss,
and damage. Many PCVs have used Clements Insurance for this type of coverage.
The following website provides up to date information about applying for property
insurance. Mention of this company is for informational purposes only and constitutes
neither an endorsement nor a recommendation.
http://www.clements.com/specialty/specialty_peace_corps_pp.asp

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ANNEXES

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Annex: Sexual Assault Risk Reduction and Response Program

Template for Post Volunteer Handbooks
General Description of Peace Corps Sexual Assault Risk Reduction and
Response Program
Peace Corps has in place a comprehensive Sexual Assault Risk Reduction and
Response (SARRR) Program that reflects its unwavering commitment to reducing risks
for Volunteers and responding effectively and compassionately to reports of sexual
assault and other crimes.
The program takes a two-pronged approach. The first is to reduce risks through training
for Volunteers, including bystander intervention, risk assessment, and other skillbuilding sessions during Pre- and In-Service Training; the second is to ensure that
Peace Corps staff responds effectively and compassionately when incidents do occur,
through staff training, the Office of Victim Advocacy, and the appointment of trained
Sexual Assault Response Liaisons (SARLs) at each post.
The Peace Corps offers a wide variety of support services to victims of sexual assault.
If you are the victim of sexual assault or even if you are unsure if you have been
victimized, we strongly encourage you to report this to staff at post so that you can get
the services that you need to aid in your recovery. No one deserves to be the victim of
a sexual assault. We are committed to treat you with dignity and respect and to respect
your privacy.
The SARRR Program includes new and updated policies, extensive training for
Volunteers and staff, and clearly defined procedures for reducing risks and responding
to Volunteers who are victims of sexual assault. It reflects Peace Corps ironclad
commitment to the physical and emotional well-being of every single Volunteer and our
desire to create an environment where Volunteers can feel confident seeking support
from Peace Corps.
Below are descriptions of the critical training, policies and procedures related to the
SARRR Program.

Volunteer Training on Sexual Assault Risk Reduction and Response

Peace Corps wants every Volunteer to have a safe, healthy and productive service. To
that end, Peace Corps has designed four comprehensive personal safety and security
training sessions for Pre-Service Training centered around Personal Safety and Risk
Reduction, Sexual Assault Awareness, Sexual Assault Impact, Reporting and
Response, and a peer-based support model widely used in the United States called
Bystander Intervention.

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In addition, each Peace Corps post integrates critical information into language and
cross-cultural training sessions in both Pre-Service and In-Service Training. These
trainings cover topics such as dealing with unwanted attention/harassment, gender
issues and dating, site entry and integration, and how to report incidents and access
support from the Peace Corps.

A Volunteer-Centered Approach to Reporting Sexual Assaults: Restricted and

Standard Reporting
If a Volunteer is sexually assaulted, she/he has the option to make either a restricted or
standard report. Volunteers may, for a variety of reasons, be reluctant or unwilling to
report sexual assaults. As a result, the Peace Corps has developed two confidential
reporting options to provide Volunteers with a choice when reporting a sexual assault.
By giving Volunteers these two options, we hope to encourage all Volunteers who are
the victims of sexual assault to come forward so they receive the services that they
need.
Restricted Reporting: A Volunteer who wishes to make a restricted report
about a sexual assault should contact the PCMO or the other Designated Staff
(SSC, SARL or Victim Advocate) directly. Restricted reporting strictly limits
access to information about an assault to only those providing support services
requested by the Volunteer. Under restricted reporting a Volunteer has the ability
to request medical, counseling, advocacy and legal services without sharing
personal information or the details of the assault beyond those who directly
provide services, and without triggering an investigation. Peace Corps service
providers at post, called Designated Staff, include the PCMO, the SSC, and the
SARL. Service providers at Headquarters are also Designated Staff and include
an Assigned Security Specialist in the Office of Safety and Security, and the
Victim Advocate.
Standard Reporting: A Volunteer who wishes to report a sexual assault should
contact the PCMO or other Designated Staff (SSC, SARL, or Victim Advocate)
directly. Standard reporting provides a Volunteer who has been sexually
assaulted the ability to seek criminal, legal or administrative action against the
offender. Standard reporting also allows a Volunteer to widen the circle of
support by including the Country Director or other staff as needed. Standard
reports are confidentially shared with the Country Director, and may be shared
with other staff who have a specific need to know the information contained in the
report in order to perform specific tasks that are part of their official duties.

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Restricted Report Services

Standard Report Services

The option to make either a restricted All restricted report services.

report or a standard report, including an
explanation of Peace Corps reporting Assistance in filing a report with law
options.
enforcement authorities.
Provision of a Sexual Assault Response Assistance in any legal proceedings
Liaison (SARL) and a Victim Advocate.
related to the sexual assault.
Provision of a sexual assault forensic Retention of legal counsel to represent
exam in accordance with host country the Volunteer in legal proceedings.
laws.
Consideration of site or host-family
Provision of emergency health care, to change.
treat medical complications from the
sexual assault.
Ability to report to, and receive
assistance from, the Office of Inspector
Provision of counseling and psychiatric General or the Office of Civil Rights
medication, if necessary.
and Diversity.
Completion of a Safety Plan and a Ability to initiate formal Peace Corps
Medical Treatment Plan.
administrative processes, including
initiating a complaint of sexual
Evacuation for medical treatment misconduct if the assailant is another
accompanied by Designated Staff at the Peace Corps Volunteer.
request of the Volunteer.
Support and assistance from the
An explanation of law enforcement and Country Director and other nonprosecutorial options, including, for this Designated Staff, as needed.
purpose, legal representation.
Any other services deemed necessary
in the particular circumstances.

If you have any questions about services provided under restricted or standard
reporting, contact the PCMO, SSC, SARL or Victim Advocate.
Conversion of Restricted Report into Standard Report: A Volunteers report
of sexual assault is presumed to be a restricted report until she/he exercises the
option to make the report a standard report or until it is otherwise converted into
a standard report in accordance with Peace Corps procedures. Under no
circumstances may a restricted report be converted into a standard report without
the consent of the Volunteer or unless the Office of the General Counsel, in
conjunction with the Assigned Security Specialist or the Office of Health

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Services, has determined in accordance with Peace Corps procedures, that an

exception applies.
Exceptions to Sharing Personal Information from a Restricted Report: In
cases where Volunteers elect restricted reporting, disclosure of personally
identifying information (PII) is authorized to the following persons or organization
when disclosure would be for the following reasons:
Peace Corps staff or law enforcement when authorized by the Volunteer in
writing;
Peace Corps staff or law enforcement to prevent or lessen a serious or imminent
threat to the health or safety of the Volunteer or others;
SARLS, Victim Advocates, or health care providers for the provision of services;
State and Federal courts when ordered, or if disclosure is required by Federal or
State statute.
If you have any questions about exceptions to sharing PII from a restricted
report, contact your PCMO, SSC or Victim Advocate.

Immunity from Peace Corps Disciplinary Action for Victims of Sexual Assault
The Peace Corps policy is to encourage reporting of sexual assaults and to not focus
on the victims behavior or otherwise blame the victim, either directly or indirectly, for the
assault. In furtherance of this policy, the Peace Corps will provide the victim of a sexual
assault, as well as any witness who provides information or assistance in relation to the
sexual assault of a Volunteer or Trainee, with immunity for policy violations related to
the incident. No victim of a sexual assault or any such witness will be subject to any
disciplinary action for any violation of an agency-wide or post-specific policy that may
have taken place in connection with, or in the same general time frame as, the assault.
There are certain exceptions to this policy. While policy violations will not be handled as
disciplinary matters, any implications that such violations may have for the ability of the
Volunteer or Trainee to continue to serve in a safe and effective manner may be
addressed in professional counseling. Also, if a case involves particularly severe
conduct that has an impact on a Volunteers or Trainees ability to continue to serve
safely and effectively or that has a significant impact on the programs or operations of
the Peace Corps, it may be addressed through consultations among the Victim
Advocate, Peace Corps headquarters and the post, with a final decision to be made by
the Deputy Director.
This policy only applies to disciplinary action by the Peace Corps. It does not grant
immunity for criminal or civil liability for violations of U.S. or local law.

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Sexual Assault Response Liaisons

Two Sexual Assault Response Liaisons (SARLs) have been appointed at every Peace
Corps post. SARLs provide services at the request of the Volunteer and may assist
Volunteers making Restricted or standard reports. When requested, a SARL acts as a
member of the Designated Staff whose primary purpose is to respond to and support
Volunteers who report a sexual assault. A SARL works collaboratively with other
Designated Staff to ensure the Volunteer is safe and then provides a comforting
presence throughout the in-country response, including meetings with Peace Corps
staff or law enforcement, appointments with medical providers for sexual assault
forensic exams, and court proceedings. SARLs may also accompany a victim of sexual
assault on medevac.
SARLs receive comprehensive training about the dynamics of sexual assault and its
impact on victims, effective and compassionate response to victims, and the importance
of confidentiality and privacy. To request the services of a SARL, talk to your PCMO or
contact your SARL directly.

Office of Victim Advocacy

A Victim Advocate based in Washington, DC is available 24-hours a day for any
Volunteer who has been a victim of a crime, including sexual assault. The Victim
Advocate can assist Volunteers/Trainees in understanding their medical and legal
options, accessing support services and making informed decisions. A Victim Advocate
is one of the Designated Staff for restricted reports and will proactively reach out to
every victim of a sexual assault. The Victim Advocate may be reached by calling or
texting +1-202-409-2704 or emailing victimadvocate@peacecorps.gov.

Sexual Misconduct
The Peace Corps strives to create a respectful, non-threatening environment between
Volunteers/Trainees. The Peace Corps Volunteer/Trainee Sexual Misconduct policy
describes a broad range of behaviors that are deemed inappropriate and will not be
tolerated. Sexual misconduct includes non-consensual sexual activity, non-consensual
sexual contact, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment and stalking.
The Peace Corps Volunteer/Trainee Sexual Misconduct policy encourages prompt
reporting of all types of sexual misconduct by Volunteers and Trainees and provides for
a timely and fair resolution of sexual misconduct complaints. The policy establishes an
administrative process to manage a Volunteer/Trainees allegations of sexual
misconduct against another Volunteer. As long as the accused Volunteer/Trainee
continues to serve in the Peace Corps, there is no time limit for bringing a complaint of
sexual misconduct. However, Volunteers/Trainees are encouraged to report sexual

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misconduct immediately in order to maximize the Peace Corps ability to obtain

evidence and conduct a thorough, impartial and reliable investigation.
The administrative process under the Volunteer/Trainee Sexual Misconduct policy is
only available under standard reporting of sexual assault. If the complaining Volunteer
is not sure if she/he wishes to make a report of sexual assault under standard reporting,
she/he can discuss her/his options with a PCMO and a Victim Advocate before making
a decision. Once the Volunteer has decided to make a complaint under the
Volunteer/Trainee Sexual Misconduct policy, the first step is to bring the complaint to
the attention of the Country Director.
The Volunteer/Trainee Sexual Misconduct policy applies only to complaints of sexual
misconduct by other Volunteers or Trainees. A Volunteer who is the victim of a sexual
assault committed by a Peace Corps staff member or contractor, or any other person
who receives funds from Peace Corps, can make a Restricted Report and receive
support services. However, if the Volunteer wishes to report the incident to law
enforcement authorities or to the Country Director, the Office of Inspector General or the
Office or Civil Rights and Diversity, it will have to be converted into a standard report.

Stalking
Stalking is serious and can escalate over time. Incidents of stalking should be reported
like other crimes and post staff will quickly respond with appropriate action to ensure the
Volunteers safety and well-being.
Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific Volunteer that would cause a
reasonable person to fear for his/her safety or the safety of others, or to suffer
substantial emotional distress. Volunteers who are victims of stalking, including cyberstalking, are strongly encouraged to report the incident to Peace Corps.
Confidentiality Protection
Peace Corps will ensure that the confidentiality of Volunteers who raise allegations of
wrongdoing and other concerns is protected. Peace Corps staff must take appropriate
measures to ensure the Volunteers safety and confidentiality, and to ensure the
allegation is given serious consideration, including referral to the Office of Inspector
General, as appropriate. Retaliation of any kind against the Volunteer is prohibited.
Peace Corps Confidentiality Protection policy describes the right of a Volunteer or
Trainee to report activities which may constitute: a violation of federal law, rule, or
regulation; mismanagement; serious misconduct; gross waste of funds; abuse of
authority; or a substantial and specific danger to the public health and safety relating to
the programs and operations of the Peace Corps. Volunteers and Trainees have the
right to report an allegation to the Office of Inspector General, senior staff at
headquarters, your Country Director or other senior staff at post regarding any activity

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which you believe falls within the categories listed above. This policy also encourages
you to discuss with Peace Corps staff allegations or concerns that are beyond the legal
jurisdiction of Peace Corps, such as behavior by a host country national not directly
involved in a Peace Corps program.
To make an allegation or raise a concern, contact the Country Director. You may also
contact the Office of Inspector General at +1 202 6922915 or toll-free in the United
States at (800) 233-5874; or at OIG@peacecorps.gov.

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Annex: Commitment to Sexual Assault Victims

Peace Corps is committed to providing a compassionate and supportive

response to all Volunteers who have been sexually assaulted. To that
end, Peace Corps makes the following commitment to our Volunteers
who are victims of sexual assault.

1. COMPASSION
We will treat you with dignity and respect.
No one deserves to be a victim of a sexual assault.
2. SAFETY
We will take appropriate steps to provide for
your ongoing safety.
3. SUPPORT
We will provide you with the support you need
to aid in your recovery.
4. LEGAL
We will help you understand the relevant legal
processes and your legal options.
5. OPEN COMMUNICATION
We will keep you informed of the progress of your
case, should you chose to pursue prosecution.
6. CONTINUATION OF SERVICE
We will work closely with you to make decisions
regarding your continued service.
7. PRIVACY
We will respect your privacy and will not, without
your consent, disclose your identity or share the details
of the incident with anyone who does not have a
legitimate need to know.
Peace Corps staff worldwide will demonstrate this commitment to you through our
words and actions.

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Annex: Medical Missions Policy Guidance

In order to support Peace Corps Goals 2 and 3, Volunteers may receive invitations to
support teams of foreign medical professionals who come to Guatemala to offer their
services for short term missions. A limited amount of time engaged in translating for
these groups can be complementary to a Peace Corps Volunteers work. However,
even this short term partnership with another organization must be considered on a
case by case basis in order to minimize the risks to the safety of the Volunteer and the
integrity of the Peace Corps program.
The Peace Corps philosophy of development focuses on sustainability of a Volunteers
work, with local organizations that have requested the technical support of a Volunteer.
The Volunteers role falls within one of the three projects which are designed by Peace
Corps and its partners to meet the expressed development needs of Guatemala. The
Peace Corps trains and supports Volunteers as they aim to build local capacity of
individuals, organizations and communities.
Medical missions are driven by people who want to help, but they often do not provide
this help in a sustainable or cost effective way. Organizations that have local partners
and the ability to communicate with the people they want to help are compatible with
Peace Corps philosophy of development. However, that is often not the case with
many of these organizations engaging in medical missions abroad. As such, they fall
outside of the framework of the Guatemalan national health care system which our
collective efforts are meant to be reinforcing.
In terms of Volunteer safety, even if Volunteers are only translating or helping to fill out
paperwork, they will be seen as part of that medical mission. If there are any
misunderstandings or medical complications, especially after the medical professionals
have left, the Volunteer may be seen as responsible for that medical complication. This
is a risk to the Volunteers personal safety.
PCVs may under no circumstances be involved in direct health care, including
activities that may place them at an unacceptably high level of personal health
risk. (Direct health care means any medical services including counseling, that
are normally provided by licensed health professionals). These activities include,
but are not limited to, participating in immunization programs, attending or
otherwise assisting with childbirths, performing phlebotomy (procedures that
involve the use of needles or IV catheters to enter the vascular system), dental
procedures and other activities that may place them at risk for exposure to blood
or body fluids.
In terms of the integrity of the overall Peace Corps program, the Volunteers support to
the foreign team of medical professionals may be seen as an official Peace Corps
partnership. This could misrepresent our philosophy and create expectations for
donations and other forms of aid that are not the sustainable capacity building
development work that we promote. If there are any problems or complications as a

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result of the medical teams interventions, once they are gone, the Peace Corps could
be seen as the local responsible partner, putting at risk the whole program and posing a
liability to Peace Corps reputation as an agency.

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Annex: Marriage
Any PCV wishing to marry and to continue PC services must obtain the written approval
of the Country Director before entering into marriage. PCVs must consult with their
Program Managers well before a marriage is scheduled. The Program Managers then
have the responsibility of determining whether a PCVs proposed marriage will
adversely affect job performance and, after careful consideration, will make a
recommendation to the Country Director. The Country Director, or the DPT, will then
discuss the prospective marriage with the PCV to assure that there is a full
understanding of job and financial implications. The Country Director normally will
authorize marriages only in the last six months of the Volunteers service.
If the PCVs fiance is not a U.S. citizen, both a Country Name Check and a National
Agency Check must be conducted on a prospective non-U.S. citizen spouse prior to his
or her marriage to a Volunteer. If the fiance is a U.S. citizen, a National Agency
Check is required. The Volunteer shall furnish to the Country Director a Standard Form
85P completed by his or her proposed spouse.
Please allow at least four-months to receive final results on security name checks from
the U.S. Embassy Regional Security Office and the Peace Corps Director of Personnel
Security in Washington. These name checks must be completed with satisfactory
results before the Country Director will approve a PCV marriage.
If the Volunteer wants an Immigrant Visa for a non-U.S. spouse, that Visa should be
obtained in Guatemala. It cannot be obtained prior to the marriage, as the marriage
certificate is among the documents required to start the procedure. After presentation
of the required documentation, the Visa will take more than 2 months if the spouse has
not been in the States for over six months. If the prospective spouse has lived in the
U.S. for more than six months, processing time will be about six months.
In the case of an intended marriage between a PCV and a non-PCV U. S. citizen, the
PCV may not continue their service unless the Country Director determines that the
non-PCV spouse has demonstrated all of the following:
An adequate knowledge (through study or actual experience) of the host
countrys customs and language; and
A capacity to live successfully in that or a similar overseas situation; and
If employed, a job which is compatible with the goals of the Peace Corps and the
responsibilities of PCVs. For this purpose the intended spouse must have the
necessary work permit from the GOG and a residency, or a courtesy visa from a
foreign entity working in the country; and
The PCV must demonstrate that the couple will have adequate financial
resources to support themselves.
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Following a marriage, the PCV who marries a non-Volunteer shall live at the same
economic level as other PCVs.
The Country Director can advise on the procedures to follow in order to obtain the
necessary clearances.
If the intended spouse is a non-PCV U.S. citizen, PC/G will not be able to assist in any
way, nor be responsible for ones migratory status in Guatemala. Tourist cards or Visas
do not permit a stay of over 90 days, nor do they authorize the bearer to work in
Guatemala. PC/G is not responsible for payment of any expense, including return
travel, of non-PCV spouses.
Procedures regarding PCV marriages are not meant to interfere with a PCVs right to
marry or choice of a spouse. They simply ensure that a proposed PCV marriage will not
impair the PCVs ability to perform their job and complete their service satisfactorily.
A PCV who marries, despite the Country Directors decision that the marriage will
preclude the PCVs continued effective service or without written approval from
the CD, will be administratively separated.

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Annex: Holidays
Official Guatemalan and US holidays. PCVs may take the following Guatemalan
holidays in the list below off from work. These days are not counted in computations of
PCV annual leave taken within Guatemala. The August 15 Feast of the Assumption is
only celebrated in the capital, making it a normal work day for PCVs.
PCVs are expected to work on all US holidays, with the exception of Thanksgiving and
the Fourth of July. Both PC-G offices will be closed on all US and Guatemalan official
holidays. The following are the only official Guatemalan and US holidays during which
the PC offices will be closed:
January 1, New Years Day (US and G)
Third Monday in January, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (US)
Third Monday in February, Presidents Day (US)
March or April, Holy Thursday and Good Friday, (G)
May 1, Guatemalan Labor Day (G)
Last Monday in May, Memorial Day (US)
Independence Day (US)
August 15, Feast of the Assumption (G)
First Monday in September, Labor Day (US)
September 15, Guatemalan Independence Day (G)
Second Monday in October, Columbus Day (US)
October 20, Guatemalan Revolution Day (G)
November 1, All Saints Day
November 11, Veterans Day (US)
Fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving Day (US)
December 24, Christmas Eve (half-day G)
December 25, Christmas Day (US and G)
Please note that during Easter Week (Semana Santa), some host country agencies
close their offices for the entire week, however only Holy Thursday and Good Friday
are official Guatemalan holidays.

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Annex: Planning of Volunteer Group Events

PCVs will submit written plans for any events involving more than 7 PCVs. Plans
should be submitted to the PMs of the PCVs involved and to the Safety and Security
Coordinator.
Plans should include the following information:
Location and Contact Information:
PCVs must follow PC-G Transportation Policy and consult the SSC if the event will take
place in a Yellow Municipio/Department
Contact information should include the exact address or location of the event, the phone
numbers and email of organizers, the Consolidation Point for the area and Police and
Fire Crew (Bomberos) locations. A complete list of all attendees should be submitted.
Arrival and Departure Information:
PCVs must follow PC-G Transportation Policy and use the approved transportation
means for the location they are planning to travel to.
Information should be included about how PCVs will arrive and depart from the location
safely. This includes information about PC Shuttle reservations, Tourist Shuttles and/or
Direct Pullman schedules. Phone numbers of safe and reliable local taxi drivers or
arrangements to take known, safe taxis should also be given if necessary. As much as
possible PCVs should make plans to travel together while traveling to and from an
event, especially PCVs that are traveling long distances. Organizers should make
arrangements to meet attendees at predetermined times and locations. Nobody should
be left "stranded" when arriving alone.
Accommodations:
Give a description of the physical security of the hotel or house where the event is to be
held. Sufficient keys should be made or requested for the building. It would be ideal to
have a place to store valuables (cameras, money, etc). This could be a lockable interior
room or the safe of a decent hotel. Plan space for PCVs to have secure sleeping
arrangements and that no one will have to travel after dark to find another place to
sleep.
Food and Water:
Think ahead about food and water supplies, particularly in more remote areas where
water supply is a problem. Keep plenty of non-alcoholic beverages on hand to provide
options.
Other Considerations:
It's best to hold events in a central location. Any PCV leaving the event, particularly
those that have been drinking, should be accompanied by sober PCVs. If alcohol is
being consumed at the event, non-drinkers should be designated. These designated
non-drinkers will be in charge of monitoring that the celebration is kept under control,
that the noise level is not too high, and that all volunteers are safely "in" for the night.

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Attention should also be paid to "party crashers" or any non-PCV friends or invitees.
The designated non-drinkers should also keep an eye out for friends that may "wander
off" alone. Basically non-drinkers can keep an eye on the big picture. The security of
any one PCV is the responsibility of all PCVs at a party.

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Annex: Adventure Sports - SCUBA Diving

Scuba diving can be a rewarding and exciting underwater sport. Because the sport
takes place underwater, scuba diving is both challenging and potentially dangerous.
Serious injuries or even death can result from or be caused by multiple factors when
diving. Some of these factors include:
1. Rapid ascents
2. Excessive time at depth
3. Out of air conditions
4. Hazardous marine life bites or stings
5. Extreme environmental conditions
6. Poor physical or mental conditioning and health
7. Improper, inadequate, or poorly maintained equipment, and
8. Improper or no professional training.
To enhance the safety of those who choose to dive, PCVs must read and
understand, in its entirety, this scuba diving policy and submit a signed
acknowledgment form (see below) to this effect to the PCMO prior to undertaking
any diving.
Requirements:
Medical Clearance
Before scuba diving or beginning scuba diving training, PCVs must be medically
cleared by a PCMO.
Certification
Before diving, the PCV must possess current certification from a U.S.-recognized
scuba training organization. The PCV will provide a front and back copy of the
certification to the PCMO. The exception to this requirement is that a PCV may
dive without certification if he or she is actively enrolled in a scuba diving training
course approved by a U.S.-recognized scuba training organization and the diving
is part of that course. All requirements of the certification course must be
adhered to at all times, particularly the depth and time limits.
Equipment
Whenever diving, PCVs must use the following equipment: face mask, fins,
snorkel, compressed air tank, buoyancy compensating device, weights as
required, regulator with alternate air source (octopus or equivalent), pressure
gauge and depth gauge (collectively known as the pressure-depth console),
timing device (water-resistant watch or bottom timer), compass (any model,
including watchband type), whistle, dive tables, and a visual signaling
device/safety sausage. In addition to this required equipment, PCVs are
encouraged to carry or wear a pair of gloves, a knife, dive computer, safety
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sausage, and light. Whether the PCV uses his or her own equipment or rented
equipment, it must be in full, good working condition before every dive.
Maintenance
PCVs must follow manufacturers recommendations for equipment maintenance.
At a minimum, the regulator and alternate air source must be serviced annually.
For compressed air cylinders, the hydrostatic test (check of tank integrity and
tensile strength) date must be current.
Safe Diving Rules
PCVs must follow the commonly accepted rules of safe diving, which are as
follows:
1. NEVER DIVE ALONE. Always use the buddy system. PCVs should dive with
a dive master in the water whenever possible.
2. Dive only when feeling well, both physically and mentally.
3. Diving is prohibited to:
a. People who currently have or have ever suffered from epilepsy or asthma.
b. Diabetics who are currently on medication or insulin.
c. Pregnant women.
d. People who have a significant heart condition.
4. Dive well hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Do not drink alcohol the day of the
dive or immediately after diving. Do not dive if you have a hangover.
5. Dive with a reputable, internationally certified Dive Center. Check out their
tank filling facilities to make sure they appear safe. Be on the look out for any
unprofessionalism.
6. Evaluate dive conditions, both present and expected, and dive only when
conditions are as good as or better than those you were trained in.
7. Be prepared for emergencies by having local emergency contact information
on hand and active dive insurance (DAN, etc.).
8. PCV shall wear a life jacket when on any dive boat.
9. Never exceed depth or time limits for which you have been qualified by your
certifying organization. For PADI and most other certifying organizations, this
means 60 feet for open water divers and 100 feet for advanced divers who
took deep diving as a component of their advanced course. The maximum
recreational dive limit is 130 feet. Regardless of the certifying organization,
never dive beyond 100 feet unless specifically trained to do so in your
certifying course.

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10. Never ascend faster than your smallest exhaled bubbles. Never hold your
breath.
11. If you exceed your no-decompression limit, immediately begin your ascent
and take an extended safety stop for 8 to 15 minutes depending on the extent
of exceeding your no-decompression limit. Additionally, do not dive for the
next 6 to 24 hours depending on the extent of exceeding your nodecompression limit.
12. Always plan your dive and share your plan, including a five-minute safety stop
at 15 feet.
13. Do not fly for 24 hours after diving. Following two or more days of repetitive
diving, do not fly for 36 hours after your last dive.
14. Before diving, set up your SCUBA equipment and make sure that it functions
normally and is free from wear or defects. Buddy checks are recommended
each dive.
15. Do not take part in any Resort Course diving that is not taught by a certified
scuba instructor. All Resort Course diving, for an introduction to diving, shall
have a maximum dive depth of 25 feet.
16. Do not dive in wrecks, tunnels, or caves unless you have provided a
certificate from a U.S.-recognized scuba diving organization demonstrating
that you have been trained in these types of dives.
The PCMO has the authority to prohibit Resort Course diving when
there are concerns about the quality of instruction or the equipment
being used.
Failure to follow any element of this policy may result in disciplinary action that
could include termination of diving privileges for a part of or the remainder of the
volunteers service, or administrative separation.

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PEACE CORPS/GUATEMALA
Annex: Scuba Diving Policy - Acknowledgment Form

I have read and understand the Peace Corps/Guatemala Scuba diving policy and I
understand that any failure to adhere to this policy may be grounds for loss of diving
privileges, administrative separation, and/or other disciplinary action.

Name: _________________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________

Date: ___________________________________________________

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Annex: First Aid and Provision of Medical Care

Although First Aid Training is an important aspect of health promotion and injury/illness
prevention, it is essential that Volunteers refrain from participating in direct health care
activities that may place them at risk for exposure to blood or body fluids. These
activities include, but are not limited to, participating in immunization programs,
provision of first aid or medical care to children attending day camps/school activities,
attending or otherwise assisting with childbirths, performing phlebotomy or other
medical procedures, and insertion of intravenous catheters.
The role of Volunteers is to collaborate with host-country organizations who can train
host-country nationals in first aid/CPR skills. It is not the role of Volunteers to assume
primary responsibility for conducting such trainings nor is it the responsibility of the
Volunteers to provide medical care/first aid supplies. Volunteers may collaborate with
local resources, such as health centers/officials, Red Cross offices, Fire Departments,
NGOs, public school teachers, community leaders, service providers, HCN families, etc.
Peace Corps Guatemala must ensure that First Aid/CPR trainings in which Volunteers
are involved are sponsored, organized and/or administered by HCN organizations
rather than by the Volunteers themselves.

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Annex: Extensions - Special Leave

Special Leave is available to those Volunteers who have finished two years of Peace
Corps service and are extending their service for at least one year in Guatemala or are
transferring/extending to another country for that period. Special Leave consists of 30
days in addition to normal accrued vacation leave. Volunteers extending for less than
12 months are not eligible for Special Leave. If, at the end of the six months, PCVs
realize that another six months are needed to complete works already begun, they are
entitled to Special Leave. Special Leave is only taken every two years, prior to another
extension of no less than 13 months
The purpose of Special Leave is to provide the extending Volunteer with an opportunity
to travel to the U.S. to visit with family before entering another year or more of service.
Eligible Volunteers are encouraged to take Special Leave prior to beginning another
year of service so that they can rest and have a change of environment. Extending
Volunteers must inform their PM and the Director of Management and Operations of the
date they are planning to take Special Leave so that it can be reflected in extension
documentation and budget plans.
The following is a summary of details concerning the Special Leave process for eligible
Extensions and Transfer/Extensions:
1. The Volunteer must have a complete physical exam, as if COSing and be medically
cleared by OMS for the transfer/extension. .
2. The Volunteer receives $12 per day for each day of Special Leave taken up to 30
days.
3. With prior approval of the PM, a Volunteer may arrange for leave beyond the 30
days by using up to 15 days of advanced vacation or accumulated leave.
4. Volunteers receive an airline ticket to their Home of Record or to another destination
(not to exceed in cost the value of a 30 day excursion round trip ticket to the Home
of Record). You may not receive cash in lieu of the ticket and if more than 30 days
are taken, PCVs must cover the difference in the cost of the ticket.
5. Budget factors may influence either postponing or advancing the dates when
Special Leave may be taken.
6. A 12-month extension is in addition to the month of Special Leave; therefore, the
new COS date will be at least 13 months into the future.
The decision to pursue a Volunteer Transfer/Extension or Extension with subsequent
Special Leave must be reached no later than two months prior to the original COS date
of the Volunteer. PCMOs are not permitted to perform the COS medicals more than 60
days before the original COS date.

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Special Leave should be taken within the first three months of the new period of service,
although other arrangements may be made because of special circumstances such as
to advance initiation of this leave (up to 60 days). In no case can it be taken during the
last three months of the extended service

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Annex: Steps to Export Pets to the United States

1. Take the pet to its Medical Veterinarian:
a. Vaccine Certificate (the most important vaccine is against Rabies),
b. Medical Veterinarian Certificate (Certificado Mdico Veterinario) issued for
clinical test and vaccines. Must be signed, sealed, and stamped by the
Medical Veterinarian.
2. Payment in BANRURAL
Make a deposit in the following account:
Account Name: MAGA-UNR Cobro por servicios valor fijo-280
Cdigo nmero 1012
You will need to provide a NIT number
Certificado Zoosanitario Internacional de Exportacin
Deposit Q. 49.00 in cash
3. Ventanilla nica para las Exportaciones:
Go to the clinic of Dr. CARLOS MOLINA LARA at 14 Calle 14-30, Zone 13, in
Guatemala City, Monday thru Friday, from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 thru
15:00 hrs. Telephone: 2422-3547.
Submit the following documents:
i) Application, ii) Medical Veterinarian
Certificate (copy and original), and iii) Deposit slip made at Banrural (per #2
above).
You will be issued with the Certificado Zoosanitario Internacional de
Exportacin which is valid for 15 days. You will have to pay Q. 50.00 for a
veterinarian tax stamp at Banco Industrial (next door to Ventanilla Unica para las
Exportaciones).
Note on timing procedure: The certificate is issued the same day if documents
are at the doctors office on or before 8:30 a.m.
4. Airline check: Ticket reservation, cage, temperature, city of destiny. One day
before, at the airport, get in touch with the airline and, through the airline, contact
the Quarantine Inspector (optional).
You may contact Dr. CARLOS MOLINA LARA at 2422-3547 when you need
assistance on these procedures.

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Annex: Help Protect Children

HELP
PROTECT
CHILDREN
Sex with minors overseas by any
American is a felony under federal law,
punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Peace Corps staff or Volunteers who
are aware of any such activity must
report it immediately to the Peace
Corps Inspector General.
OFFICE OF THE
INSPECTOR GENERAL
800.233.5874
202.692.2900
fax
202.692.2906
email
oig@peacecorps.gov

If you are aware of any illegal activity, report it

immediately to the Peace Corps Inspector General

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Annex: Administrative Separation: Things to Avoid

The Volunteer Handbook for Guatemala covers a wide range of topics including
Administrative Separation. Administration Separation is a determination by the Peace
Corps that, in the interest of all concerned, a Volunteer or Trainee should not continue
their Peace Corps service. Once the determination for Administration Separation is
made the Volunteers service with Peace Corps is terminated and the Volunteer
returned to their home of record within 48 hours. Under Administration Separation a
Volunteer is basically fired from service.
The following are grounds for Administration Separation. This list is not necessarily
comprehensive and is provided for your information.
Please contact your Program Manager or other staff member for clarification.
-

Disregard of Whereabouts Policy

Receiving outside payment for services
Absent without approved leave
Failure to meet training standards
Fraud deception, intentional false statements in obtaining selection to PC
Any conduct or pattern of behavior that presents a reasonable possibility of injury
Intelligence gathering activities
Arrest or conviction of any criminal offense
Unsatisfactory work performance
Unauthorized absence from work or travel to a third country
Violation of the Code of Ethics
Abuse or irresponsible use of alcohol
Any conduct which presents a reasonable possibility of risk
Failure to give notice of vacation days
Nonuse of helmets or life jackets, driving an auto, purchasing, owning or riding a
motorcycle
Drug use or rumors of drug use
Fraternization (dating or intimate physical or sexual relationship between any
Peace Corps staff member and any Peace Corps Trainee/Volunteer, or between
any Peace Corps staff member and his/her subordinate staff).
Any behavior that damages Peace Corps reputation in Guatemala or discredits
PC programs
Violation of the Protect Act (prohibiting sexual contact with a minor)
Publication of material resulting in adverse consequences
Proselytizing of religious beliefs
Paternity
Refusal to take required vaccinations or prophylaxis
Refusal to follow PCMO instructions
Non-compliance regarding medical policies

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Annex: Commonly Used Peace Corps Acronyms

AWOL
CD
COS
DOS
DMO
DPT
EAP
ESC
EST
ET
FA
FECA
FICA
GAD
GOG
GSC
GSM
HCA
HCN
HOR
IAP
ICE
IRC
IRS
ITS
LWOP
MEDEVAC
MS
MSC
MST
NGO
OMS
OVS
PC
PC/G
PCMO
PCT
PCV
PCVC
PC/W
PM
PSC
PST

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Absence With Out Leave

Country Director
Close of Service
Description of Service; or Department of State
Director of Management & Operations
Director of Programming and Training
Emergency Action Plan
Early Service Conference
Early Service Training
Early Termination
Financial Analyst
Federal Employees Compensation Act
Federal Insurance Contribution Act
Gender and Development (Gender Awareness
Development)
Government of Guatemala
General Services Coordinator
General Services Manager
Host Country Agency
Host Country National
Home of Record
Inter-America and Pacific (Peace Corps Region)
Information Collection and Exchange
Information Resource Center
Internal Revenue Service
Information Technology Specialist
Leave Without Pay
Medical Evacuation
Manual Section (Peace Corps)
Mid Service Conference
Mid Service Training
Non Governmental Organization
Office of Medical Services
Office of Volunteer Services
Peace Corps
Peace Corps Guatemala
Peace Corps Medical Officer
Peace Corps Trainee
Peace Corps Volunteer
Peace Corps Volunteer Coordinator
Peace Corps Washington
Program Manager
Personal Services Contractor
Pre-Service Training

RA
RPCV
Q
SLMA
SOW
SSC
TEFL
TOT
USD
VAC
VAD
WID
WHO
WWS

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Readjustment Allowance
Returned Peace Corps Volunteer
Quetzal, unit of money in Guatemala
Santa Lucia Milpas Altas
Statement (or Scope) of Work
Safety and Security Coordinator
Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Training of Trainers
United States Dollar
Volunteer Advisory Council
Volunteer Assignment Description
Women in Development
World Health Organization
World Wise Schools