The International Peace Garden Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(C) 3 organization initiated and managed by volunteers. Its Board of Directors is aided by an Advisory Council of distinguished citizens. Donations are welcome and deductible to the full extent of the law. The organization is not affiliated with any religious or political groups, or specific points of view. Annual dedication ceremonies provide an invaluable opportunity for the diplomatic community, local and national officials, and members of the public to gather in celebration of peace. The Foundation sponsors annual public tours to the dedication ceremonies.
The prestigious “Award for the Merits of Two Worlds,” given by the Robert Schuman European Institute of Cultural Integration, was presented to the International Peace Garden Foundation in 2000. The award was established to recognize those people and organizations that have contributed most to strengthening of relationships between various communities on an International scale. The European Parliament created the Robert Schuman Institute to further the life mission of the statesman Robert Schuman to assemble the countries of Europe for the development of cultural, economic, and social unity, as well as peaceful relations in the global community.
Each year the Foundation hosts special events to benefit the Foundation’s Cultural Scholarship Fund and its grants to students in Peace Garden countries. The foundation also organizes a school-to-school international exchange program. It assists U.S. children in making creative connections with students in participating countries through music, writing, literature and art, and “peace gardens” at their schools.
Another Foundation program currently in development is called “Beads of Peace.” American jewelry designers and business professionals offer training to disadvantaged African women so that they can utilize the plentiful resources available in their native countries, resulting in self-sustaining cottage industry. A special line of jewelry is available for purchase on the IPGF web site through the "Olive Branch" Gift Gallery to help support this project or by contacting designer Elena Crusoe directly at (301) 588-8574.
Mission
The International Peace Gardens are presented to a country in recognition of their conscious role in the pursuit of freedom, democracy and equality for all. The Peace Gardens symbolize this commitment. They serve to inspire positive thoughts of living in a more peaceful world. They provide a tranquil and creative setting for people to contemplate positive ways to further the vision of a more peaceful world.
We support programs that are non-political and operated solely by volunteers. Our agenda is simple, yet strong. We desire to make this world a kinder, gentler place for our children and future generations to live in—a world filled with opportunities that promote higher living standards and social progress.
Purpose
The International Peace Garden Foundation is a nonprofit organization, established to advance global friendship and international understanding through the creation of peace gardens and cultural exchange programs. We offer opportunities for individuals, schools, businesses, groups and governments to interact with counterparts in other countries, thus promoting friendship and harmony among peoples and nations.
Services
The Foundation coordinates the annual gift of Peace Gardens from country to country, capital city to capital city. Through our international scholarship programs we provide educational opportunities for needy students.
Organization
Founded in 1992 as a nonprofit, charitable corporation, tax-exempt under Section 501c3 of the Internal Revenue Code. Managed by a professional all-volunteer Board of Directors aided by an Advisory Council of distinguished citizens.
Supporters
The Foundation works closely with foreign embassies, municipal governments, cultural organizations and individuals who share our purpose and help support our activities. We invite the support of individuals, service clubs, garden clubs, PTAs, and civic and cultural organizations to assist us in the planning and implementation of our projects.
Volunteers
As a private citizens initiative, it is volunteers who run the International Peace Garden Foundation. Committees are established as needed to coordinate special projects. Individual volunteers in the United States and in foreign countries help to arrange our events.
Benefits
Our programs give all of us the opportunity to learn, to help others, to promote international understanding, good will and world peace. You are welcome to join us.