Although CFP has been operating under different names, the CFP model of paired youth from conflict areas rooming together for at least a month in the home of an American family has been organized from a continuous core group of volunteers since 1981. From 1981 through 2007, when efforts were focused on Northern Ireland, CFP enjoyed much national exposure, especially on television. As a result, the program was able to host over 2000 youth from every county in Northern Ireland in 35 U.S. states by 954 American host families. Since then, CFP has had over 1300 Cypriot teens participate with hosting areas in 7 U.S. states.
It is time for CFP to share its rich history with Americans who care about international issues and wish to participate in building bridges and relationships in conflict areas. As active members of the Alliance for Peacebuilding (AfP) and the Alliance for Middle East Peace (ALLMEP), we have many opportunities to share our story.
An initial Public Relations Committee has been created from existing U.S. team members to provide publicity for this summer’s program in Houston TX, Oregon/Washington, and New Hampshire. Joining the committee for the summer is Maia Riggs, a Hands of Peace alumna. We also intend to develop a CFP promotional video for use in recruiting new host families and developing new host areas. Much more could be possible with a larger committee and we are currently recruiting experienced public relations people to join us.
IF YOU HAVE PUBLIC RELATIONS EXPERIENCE AND TIME TO GIVE, PLEASE CONTACT US AT INFO@FRIENSHIPS4PEACE.ORG