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

📰 PTPI Tainan: Leadership, Culture, and Connection in Action

📰 PTPI Tainan: Leadership, Culture, and Connection in Action

🇹🇼 A Chapter Bringing Taiwan to the World Located in southern Taiwan, Tainan is often described as the island’s cultural heart. As Taiwan’s oldest city and former capital, it blends deep history with modern energy. Visitors are drawn to: 🏯 Historic landmarks such as...

📰 When Everyone Is Shouting, Who Is Listening?

📰 When Everyone Is Shouting, Who Is Listening?

A reflection on May Day, democratic tension, and the art of finding common ground As May 1st passed across the globe, something familiar unfolded in town squares, capital cities, and workplaces from Brussels to Bangkok. People took to the streets. Workers. Union...

Volunteering: Start Small. Think Bigger. Act Now.

Volunteering: Start Small. Think Bigger. Act Now.

There is a simple truth worth repeating: 👉 There are more ways to volunteer than most people realise. And many of them are closer, easier, and more flexible than expected. 🌍 Structured or Spontaneous – Both Matter Some people prefer well-organised opportunities...

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.