Laura Ripberger

CISV USA

CISV is a global organization dedicated to educating and inspiring for peace through building inter-cultural friendship, cooperation and understanding. Founded in 1950, today we are a federation of 69 Member Associations with over 200 Chapters or local groups. In over 60 years we have given countless children and young people the experience of their lives and the opportunity to build lasting friendships through our international educational programs. Our innovative, fun, non-formal peace education ‘learning by doing' programs begin with our original and unique Village program for eleven-year-olds. We offer an exciting blend of seven international camp-based, family exchange and local community programs. We aim to help our participants develop the skills they need to become informed, responsible and active global citizens and make a difference in their communities and the world. At the heart of all of our programs is friendship, in line with our founding belief that peace is possible through friendship and mutual understanding. Our mission CISV educates and inspires action for a more just and peaceful world. Our values Friendship Inclusiveness Enthusiasm Engagement Cooperation