“The best way to get to know someone is to put your feet under their table.”
        Wayne Smith, Founder of Friendship Force

Friendship Force International (FFI) is a non-profit, non-political and non-religious worldwide network of local chapters and individuals that advance our mission of promoting global understanding across the barriers that separate people.  We do this by connecting people from different countries or U.S. domestic regions at the personal level.  When local hosts open their homes to visitors from other countries and cultures, true understanding can develop through the sharing of meals, conversation and the routines of daily life.  Since its founding in 1977, FFI has brought together millions of people.  Our opportunities to journey or host are among ~300 global chapters in ~60 countries.

Friendship Force of Northeast Ohio (FFNEO) was founded as a FFI chapter in February of 1985.  We currently have 52 members living in 10 of the 18 counties that make up the Northeast Ohio region.  Visit our Calendar tab to see when and where we will be meeting next.  You are warmly welcomed to join us to learn more about this wonderful organization and meet our members!

Learn more about Friendship Force, who we are, how journeys work, where you have the opportunity to go, who you have the opportunity to home host, and how REWARDING and FUN it is to experience cultural exchange through this growing, global organization.

Considering membership?  Fill out an application at the ‘Membership Application’ link.

Values:  Welcoming, open-minded, adventurous, positive, innovative, committed to peace

• FFI commits to harnessing the transformative power of human connection.  We offer in-person and online cultural exchange opportunities that enhance understanding and appreciation of other cultures and societies.
• FFI recognizes that these experiences can lead to lifelong friendships that change the way we see the world.
• FFI will be a leading organization in the global grassroots peace movement.  We create an inclusive, intuitive, and welcoming experience for our members.  Our global network connects people who value and respect diversity and believe that peace can be built one friendship at a time.

Slogan:  A world of friends is a world of peace

Friendship Force Pledge:
As a member of the Friendship Force, I recognize that I can make a difference.
I have a mission to be a friend to the people of the world.
As I embark upon this adventure, I know that others will be watching.
I know that through my example to my fellow citizens and the people of other nations, the cause of friendship, love and peace can be advanced.
I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Song:  Let There Be Peace on Earth
Modified from original 1955 lyrics and music composed by Sy Miller and Jill Jackson-Miller

   Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.
   Let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be.
   With friendship as our mission, family all are we.
   Let us walk with each other in perfect harmony.

   Let peace begin with me, let this be the moment now.
   With every step I take, let this be my solemn vow.
   To take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally,
   Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.