1956 - 2009
"People to People International, creating global friendships for more than 50 years."
The purpose of People to People International is to enhance international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of ideas and experiences directly among peoples of different countries and diverse cultures.
People to People International is dedicated to enhancing cross-cultural communication within each community, and across communities and nations. Tolerance and mutual understanding are central themes. While not a partisan or political institution, PTPI supports the basic values and goals of its founder, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The President’s People to People Program was founded on September 11, 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, as part of the U.S. Information Agency. After President Eisenhower left the office of President in 1961, he arranged to have the program privatized as a nongovernmental organization and arranged for People to People to become a not-for-profit Missouri corporation now known as People to People International. President Eisenhower was Chairman of the Board of Trustees and recognized as the founder of the not-for-profit organization. It is incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in the state of Missouri and qualifies for exemption from income tax under the Internal Revenue Code §501(c)(3). PTPI is funded through program fees, membership dues and donations.
Among the early leaders working with President Eisenhower were J. C. Hall, the founder of Hallmark Cards, Inc., Walt Disney, Bob Hope and approximately 100 other remarkable individuals from industry, academia, and the arts. The late Charles M. Schulz, creator of the Peanuts comic strip, generously contributed three pieces of artwork for PTPI Worldwide Conferences. The organization has reaped benefits from the talents of countless individuals who have supported the ideals set forth by President Eisenhower. Today, President Eisenhower's granddaughter, Mary, serves as President and Chief Executive Officer.
Our Beliefs
- We believe that greater understanding between individuals and peoples worldwide reveals universal values and aspirations;
- We believe international educational and cultural exchange among youth further ensures long-term friendship and understanding;
- We believe we all benefit from sharing different approaches to solving common problems;
- We believe that individuals can often be more effective than governments in promoting human relationships and world peace;
- We believe if people can better understand other cultures, they are more tolerant and accepting of differences;
- We believe that citizens of all countries need personal contact with other peoples and cultures;
- We believe we need to ensure the enduring legacy of People to People International;
- We believe that People to People is inspirational!
- We believe in people!
- We believe in Peace through Understanding!
-- Mary Jean Eisenhower, President & CEO of PTPI
