The Friendship Force was originated by Wayne Smith and President and Mrs. Jimmy Carter during the Carters' years in the White House. These founders envisioned that friendships among people of different nations and cultures not only would be personally enriching for participants, but could contribute to world peace on a broad scale.

Their idea has proved its merit. Friendship Force programs have created tens of thousands of enduring friendships and helped to establish ties among businesses, institutions and communities throughout the world

You are invited to stay in the home of some friends you haven't yet met! Our exchanges typically include a one or two-week homestay with optional post-exchange touring in the region. Each exchange is led by an experienced Friendship Force club leader who will gladly discuss all of the details with you.

Friendship Force International is headquarted in Atlanta, Georgia.