Building global peace through global friendship

CISV educates and inspires action for a more just and peaceful world. CISV’s domestic and international programs for youth ages 11 – 18 develop cross-cultural friendship and instill empathy and leadership skills kids take with them for life.

CISV Pittsburgh was established in 1989, providing more than 750 children the opportunity to attend local, regional and international CISV programs. The Pittsburgh chapter is one of 21 chapters in CISV USA, joining 68 other countries to make up CISV International, founded in Ohio in 1950 as a charitable, independent, non-political, volunteer organization.

Each year, CISV Pittsburgh sends children to programs in countries like Italy, Indonesia, Brazil and Canada as well as U.S cities like Detroit, Denver and Jacksonville. The chapter also hosts international programs in Pittsburgh for kids from around the world to experience the United States first hand. The local Junior Branch youth devote their time and energy in the Pittsburgh community working on issues of human rights, sustainability, diversity and conflict resolution.

“CISV has made me aware of and mindful of the world around me. CISV has given me countless opportunities to change the world, and it continues to do so.” Charlie, age 18