Heritage

The People to People movement dates back more than half a century to its founding by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. Eisenhower was acting on his firm belief that direct interaction between ordinary citizens around the world can promote cultural understanding and world peace. That proud legacy of hope lives on in People to People Ambassador Programs on seven continents.

A Legacy of White House Support

“I have long believed, as have many before me, that peaceful relations between nations require mutual respect between individuals,” said President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He put the ideal behind these words into practice when he founded People to People in 1956. Since that time, People to People has benefited from an extraordinary legacy of White House support. Eight U.S. Presidents have served as the honorary chairman of People to People International.

As President John F. Kennedy so eloquently said, “The nature of People to People activities is as varied as the individuals involved. The housewife whose recipe contains the yeast of kindness, the soldier whose arms embrace homeless waifs, the doctor who heals with humility, all assert a single theme—the power of people, acting as individuals, to respond imaginatively to the world’s need for peace.”
People to People continues its mission to provide imaginative responses to the world’s need for peace. And it continues to enjoy presidential support as it does so.

Organization

The People to People movement was launched in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. For nearly 50 years, People to People Ambassador Programs has served as People to People International’s global educational travel provider, organizing and promoting opportunities for bridging cultural and political borders through direct interaction, unparalleled access, and unique experiences.

Today, People to People Ambassador Programs travels to every continent on the globe and offers programs for students, educators, and professionals, including:

Student Ambassador Programs — International educational opportunities for students in grades 5-12.
Sports Ambassador Programs — Opportunities for student athletes in grades 5-12 to train and compete internationally.
Leadership Programs — Leadership development and college preparation opportunities for students in grades 5-12.
Citizen Ambassador Programs — Opportunities for adults in a wide range of occupations to experience personal and professional growth as they interact with other professionals around the world through seminars, humanitarian efforts, and cultural activities.

In the News

Our delegates gain unparalleled access to extraordinary people and places with People to People Ambassador Programs. See how delegates have changed their world forever, while creating lasting memories and friendships.