Friendship Force
Melbourne
The Friendship Force is not a travel club although the core activity is travelling in groups, to stay with like-minded people in other countries (a cultural journey).
The first priority is to develop friendships and through this to generate understanding across cultural boundaries.
Friendship Force Journeys are Special - A Real Living Experience, as you can enjoy
Unique travel experiences focused on friendships.
Hosting interesting people from around the world.
Participating in community activities that promote lasting friendships.
Friendship Force Melbourne pays tribute to a remarkable woman whose indelible mark on Friendship Force will forever be cherished. Alongside her husband, President Jimmy Carter, Rosalynn Carter played a pivotal role in the establishment and nurturing of Friendship Force International during its formative years.
From 1977 to 2002, Rosalynn served as the Honorary Chairperson of Friendship Force International.
The following words are excerpted from the Forward in the book "The Other Side of The Mountain" by Charlene Terrell
In March of 1977, soon after we entered the White House, our friend Wayne Smith asked if we would work with him to establish a new international organization called The Friendship Force. We readily agreed, and in July 1977, the first exchange took place between Atlanta, Georgia, and Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. Now, 20 years later, we look back with great pride on the accomplishments of The Friendship Force. Over 500,000 people from 60 nations have developed and maintained rewarding friendships.
Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter
Friendship Force International (FFI) is an international, non-political, non-sectarian, and non-profit organisation.
The main aim of Friendship Force is to foster peace and understanding throughout the world by means of personal contacts and shared experiences achieved through a programme of home hosting. With over 300 clubs in over 60 countries throughout the world, it is coordinated from the international headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
The Friendship Force Pledge
As a member of the Friendship Force,
I recognise that I can make a difference.
I recognise that I have a mission.
That mission is to be a friend to the people of the world.
As I embark upon this adventure,
I know that others are watching me.
I know that through my example to my own fellow citizens
and the people of other nations,
the cause of friendship, love and peace can be furthered.
I can make a difference