Childrens International Summer Villages Inc

Fifth graders on a playground start arguing about who gets to use the soccer ball first. As the argument escalates, one child stops and remembers what she learned in her recent CISV experience. She knows that it is important to listen and undertand the other person's viewpoint. Because of her CISV experience, a potential conflict is resolved peacefully. As we wake up daily to tragic international news, we wonder how our own actions can make a difference in this conflict-ridden world. CISV believes shaping how children see themselves and others is key to a more peaceful world. At gatherings of 11 year olds in Japan, Spain, and Germany this past summer, our Springfield area children forged relationships with people from more than 25 other countries. These children learned new skills that will affect how they interact with others for the rest of their lives. We also offer local programming in the Springfield Public Schools that teaches 4th and 5th graders about peaceful conflict resolution, sustainability, human rights and diversity. We run these programs entirely on volunteer energy. This is a rare chance to donate to a cause that is at once local and worldly, one that assuredly pays no salaries and supports no institutional infrastructure. Every dollar donated goes towards programming. CISV founder Doris Allen said, "We must start with the children. I know that the ultimate source of peace, long range, lays with the children." CISV teaches children how to be confident and inspired leaders that are willing and able to work for a more peaceful, just world.