Advancing Peace Through Understanding 

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

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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

Across Cultures, One Message: Humanity Is Meant to Live Together

Across Cultures, One Message: Humanity Is Meant to Live Together

From time to time the world feels louder than usual.Conflict rises. Voices harden. Differences are emphasized more than what we share. Yet if we pause and look across human history, something remarkable appears. Across continents, religions, and centuries, thoughtful...

Why Global NGOs Attract the People Who Want to Change the World

Why Global NGOs Attract the People Who Want to Change the World

Why Global NGOs Attract the People Who Want to Change the World Across the world, many talented professionals begin their careers in corporate environments. Consulting firms, global companies, and financial institutions offer structured career paths, international...

🇺🇸 PTPI Delaware – Empowering Women in Togo

🇺🇸 PTPI Delaware – Empowering Women in Togo

🇺🇸 PTPI Delaware – Empowering Women in Togo Through Do More 24 March 5–6, 2026 PTPI Delaware is participating in Do More 24, Delaware’s statewide 24-hour giving campaign, to support a women’s cooperative in Togo, West Africa. In many rural communities in Togo, women...

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