About Us

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.

Founded on September 11, 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, People to People International was privatized in 1961 and relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. 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. Since its inception, nine U.S. Presidents have served as PTPI's Honorary Chairman including our current President George W. Bush. 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.

Through People to People International's Awards Program, world leaders have been recognized for their contributions toward peace. Among the recipients of PTPI's most prestigious award, the Eisenhower Medallion, are Mother Teresa - 1988; Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin - 1996 (posthumously); President Anwar el Sadat - 1996 (posthumously); Save the Children - 1998; His Grace the Archbishop Desmond M. Tutu - 2000.

"I have long believed, as have many before me, that peaceful relations between nations requires understanding and mutual respect between individuals." President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Founder of People to People International.

People to People International is a voluntary effort of private citizens promoting international understanding through direct people-to-people contacts. PTPI is a private sector, not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri USA.

Our Mission:

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. It will cooperate with any and all other organizations which are of similar nature and purpose.

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.