The information collected on the Reference Forms for Peace Corps Response Candidates as an integral part of the screening and selection process and is used to determine whether an applicant would be a good candidate as a Peace Corps Response volunteer. The information obtained from these forms is used by the recruitment and placement specialists within the Office of Peace Corps Response.
The estimated number of applicants interviewed increased from the 2011 submission from 350 to 700. This increase can be attributed to an increase in the number of applicants without previous Peace Corps experience. This also reflects in an increase in reference requests. Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) must submit two references; one staff and one professional reference. These applicants comprise of approximately 75% of the total applicants interviewed. Applicants who have not previously served with the Peace Corps must submit three references; one personal and two professional references. These applicants comprise of approximately 25% of the total applicants interviewed. Therefore, the number of references required per interviewed applicants is calculated at 2.25.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.