Friendship Force International

It seems impossible to turn on the television or your device without seeing news of natural disasters, unspeakable violence, and political divisiveness all around our world. As members of an international, friendship-building organization with social connections that span the globe, we can’t ignore what our friends might be facing on the other side of the world – or even just a short plane ride away. As ambassadors, eager to meet new friends on a planned Journey, our excitement may be dampened by concern when hearing troubling reports. Perhaps you are traveling to Australia as they face the worst fire season in its history. Or maybe you are facing worsening divisions in your home country or in the destination of your next Journey. While these events can cause us to reevaluate our plans, now more than ever it is important that we go. Go to a place where new friends are eagerly awaiting your arrival. Go to a place where friendship and peace are desperately needed. Go on a new adventure that will bring you expanded world views, friendships, and understanding. As with any Journey, we encourage you to do your research and make sure your plans are safe. But also know that your friends (both old and new) want you to come. They want you to experience their culture. They want you to know them – most especially in the face of hardships. This year, make it a point to open your home to at least one new friend, and, when the opportunity arises to explore and expand your horizons, go. In Friendship,

Dear Friends, 2019 – our 43rd year – has been a good one for Friendship Force. We are fortunate to have amongst our membership so many committed volunteer leaders who ensure that Journeys continue, keep our clubs operating, and fully understand the absolute importance of our existence in a world that often has difficulty getting its act together. To every single member everywhere, thank you for your participation in 2019. Thank you for traveling on Journeys, thank you for hosting, thank you for providing meals, thank you for spreading the word, thank you for contributing financial support, and thank you for simply being a member. Those of us whose history with Friendship Force goes back a long way may find it difficult to cope with the ways in which modern living has altered the structure of clubs. However, there is more than one way to handle this scenario and, believe me, the staff, CEO, and Board of Directors are dedicated to finding the best way forward. Like they say in the movies –

“No Friendship Force member has been, or will be harmed in the making of this future.”

It is wonderful to think back on everything that has happened over these almost 43 years – the hosts and ambassadors on Journeys that have formed innumerable friendships, the joy and excitement shared when learning about those different than ourselves, and the many lessons learned along the way! Ours is an organization for all people and all time. Its future is in our hands. Let’s each of us play our part. In friendship and peace,