CISV hosts international programs for children
December 7, 2022; 11:58 a.m.

Left to Right- Jillian Barry, Holt Solberg, Landry Thrasher, Amelia Opal Underwood, Madeline Lyons, Emma Thompson traveled to France this summer for a CISV Interchange program; image by CISV

KNOXVILLE -- In summer 2022 the Smoky Mountain chapter of Children’s International Summer Villages (CISV) organized and participated in 9 programs for children aged 11 plus with the mission of educating and inspiring action for a more just and peaceful world. The chapter sent delegations totaling 23 local participants to represent the United States in France, Mexico, Canada, Norway, and several programs domestically. They were met with delegations from other countries as well, up to 12 at camp-based programs. At these international camps and interchange programs, the delegations made friends from around the world, learned they are more alike than different, developed leadership skills, gained appreciation for other cultures, and were challenged to think critically.

Following the devastation of World War II, child psychologist Dr. Doris Allen conceived the idea for CISV in 1946 with the intent to build and maintain peace around the world. She firmly believed that the ultimate long-term source for peace lies with children. From this conviction came her vision of bringing together children from all over the globe to learn to respect different and common values. Today CISV operates in over 65 countries and over 200 cities. Participants have life-changing cultural experiences and make friends that last a lifetime from around the globe. Dedicated volunteers organize and facilitate life-changing experiences through a range of camp, family, and community-based programs to thousands of children and adults every year. CISV is a nonprofit organization that is funded through donations, grants, and program fees.

Established in 1965, the Smoky Mountain chapter of CISV has sent hundreds of delegates aged 11 years and older in the Greater Knoxville area to represent the United States at programs all over the world. Adult volunteers are also needed to help staff camps, lead delegations and facilitate experiential learning activities, and help conduct business as a board member. Since CISV is run by volunteers, it is a much cheaper option than comparable programs you might find elsewhere. Additionally, need-based scholarships are available each year to those with financial barriers to participate in a program. The chapter is always looking for open-minded candidates to represent our country, starting each fall.

Our chapter is currently seeking potential adult leaders and children aged 11 years old or older who are interested in an international learning experience. Each year we host “Fun Day” events run by our Junior Branch to invite potential leaders and youth delegates out to have fun playing games, make friends, and learn more about CISV. We have one such event coming up December 11 from 2 – 4 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Northshore Drive. Please reach out to smokymtncisv.communications@gmail.com for more information about how to get involved please visit smokymtn.cisvusa.org.

For more information about CISV:

Local: smokymtn.cisvusa.org

Junior Branch: smokymtn.cisvusa.org/board/junior-branch

National: cisvusa.org

International: cisv.org