Unique to CISV is the “Village,” a three or four-week international camp attended by delegations of eleven year olds (two boys and two girls) and an adult leader from each of twelve nations. Approximately sixty Villages are held each year in various locations worldwide.

Why eleven year olds? These children have the maturity to be away from home and understand the purpose of being brought together. They are capable of representing their culture, yet young enough to accept each other without prejudice. They communicate easily, even without a common language, and are eager to make friends. Although English is the official language of CISV, all international programs and activities incorporate many languages and cultures.

An adult Director, Staff and six Junior Counselors (age 16-17), as well as the twelve adult Delegation Leaders, guide the Village program. Emphasis is on activities that encourage creative expression and close relationships among the children. Day by day, the children come to realize that the differences between them are less important than the likenesses that bind them together. In a natural way they learn the deeper significance of developing international friendships.