ah Jim, you're full of gems.
Anyway, I'm (financially, kitchen exp, and recent graduate) in a similar situation to you. I'm living at home to save up during my only summer of minimum wage work. It's crazy to think that back two summers ago (before those unpaid internships

) I was making 13-15 an hour on weekends just to clean dishes. I live with myself by thinking that I love the work. So far I do, but I'm new to it and I'm sure the luster will wear off. But it'll also help for landing the next, full-time job.
Sounds like you have a pretty good plan if you sincerely want to join the peace corps. I have a good friend who's doing a similar program but moving away from home. I know he's working more with youth (real young youth, and not in that buttsecks way you're thinking about

), but I only imagine that's easier because he's less likely to get shot/attacked by a zombie. Depending what they exactly have you doing, just keep your wits about you, respect the fact that it's THEIR community, and as much as you're trying to do to make it improve, they very well might like certain things a certain way. Suck it and see.
You at least type like you have a good head on your shoulders and a direction in life. You'll probably be fine if you keep doin' what you're doin'