Advancing Peace Through Understanding 

Our members embody the best of what we envision for the world when the world is at its best

HomeStay

Projects

Membership Portal

Environment

Conference

History

The Origins of People to People International (PTPI)

People to People International (PTPI) was founded on September 11, 1956, by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who envisioned a world where peace could be advanced through personal connections between everyday citizens. He believed in the power of citizen diplomacy – that understanding and dialogue between individuals could lead to stronger, more peaceful international relations.

From the beginning, PTPI was supported by a group of extraordinary visionaries, including J.C. Hall (founder of Hallmark Cards), Bob Hope (entertainer and humanitarian), Walt Disney, and Charles M. Schulz (creator of Peanuts), who each contributed their creativity and global influence to promote PTPI’s mission.

Over the decades, PTPI has touched communities in over 160 countries, fostering youth leadership, international friendship, cultural exchange, and community service. Our programs have helped individuals connect across borders, build lasting relationships, and work together to solve shared global challenges.

In 2023, PTPI entered a new chapter with the opening of our Global Chapter Coordination Centre (GCC) in Brussels, Belgium – a central hub designed to support and connect our global network of chapters, volunteers, and partners.

Today, People to People International remains committed to advancing peace through understanding, championing inclusive dialogue, and empowering individuals everywhere to be global citizens and change-makers.

Explore our news & events

A Season of Direction

A Season of Direction

This time of year invites more than celebration.It invites reflection — and resolve. We pause not to measure perfection, but to recognise the distance already travelled. We look ahead knowing that meaningful work has no final destination — only continued commitment....

Eesti People to People International (Estonia) Update

Eesti People to People International (Estonia) Update

A heartfelt congratulations to all our colleagues and partners involved in the BUILD It Together CERV project. Bringing together more than 400 delegates across eight international conferences is no small achievement, and this collaboration truly reflects the best of...

Get Involved

Join

Travel

About our chapters

Submit a story

Youth

Contact us

We operate business hours on week days. You can always contact us by email or cell phone.
Our Helpdesk is staffed Tuesday to Thursday and email is answered seven days a week. Many of our services are operated by AI.