CISV (Children's International Summer Villages) was founded in 1950 by the psychologist Dr. Doris Allen, who believed after the Second World War that children are at the core of building peace. The first Village, held in the United States in 1951, welcomed 11-year-olds from eight countries. Programs have continued around the world ever since.
In the programs, children live together and learn that people around the world have much in common, regardless of race, religion or politics. The aim is to help them accept differences in each other's views and nurture understanding, patience, friendship and a spirit of peace. In 2005, CISV was formally recognized by UNESCO as an NGO in a cooperative relationship.
CISV Japan was founded in 1957 and held its first Village in Japan in 1962. About 2,000 full members aged 20 and over volunteer across four chapters: Kanto, Kansai, Tokai and Kyushu. It also runs a junior group, local projects, and training for leaders and staff.
Key points
- International exchange programs, running since 1950, in which children live and learn together
- All program delivery and operations are carried out by members as volunteers
- Over about 50 years, around 5,000 Japanese young people sent abroad and around 4,500 welcomed to programs in Japan
Why this organization deserves attention
Centered on the experience of living together with peers from around the world in childhood, it nurtures the intercultural understanding that forms a foundation for peace. The organization also explains its reasoning for the age of 11, such as children's openness and ease in communicating across language barriers.
The official website gathers a list of programs, participant reports, how to join and frequently asked questions. News of its activities is also shared through a newsletter and Facebook.
Editor's comment
Even when languages and cultures differ, I believe the friendships that grow from eating, playing and talking together hold great power. CISV's work shows how small experiences like these can grow into the ability to think about peace.
If you are interested in international exchange for your child, why not look at "How to join" on the official website?