What is Welcome Clubs, International

Welcome Clubs International is an umbrella organization representing international women’s clubs
around the world who share a common goal of cross-cultural education and understanding. We believe that knowledge and understanding of other cultures is a vital step in the progress toward peace.

In today’s world, we all must develop global cross-cultural communication skills if we are to make any progress toward a meaningful peace. The members of Welcome Clubs International have been practicing this concept for over 45 years - beginning with the formation Welcome to Washington in 1959 in response to President Eisenhower’s People to People initiative. President Eisenhower stated:

“The final battle against intolerance is yet to be fought… it won’t come from the chamber of any legislature, but from the hearts of men. If the people will only get together, then so eventually will nations.”

Most organizations are formed around a common interest - Welcome Club members come together to share their differences.

► We are united by our commonalities and enriched by our differences.
► We educate each other in the diverse cultural heritage and traditions of our respective countries.
► We focus on the building of personal connections in the belief that this will eventually influence relationships between countries.

Sherry Lee Mueller, President of the National Council for International Visitors, called us “Citizen Diplomats.”
We practice diplomacy one friendship at a time! We form our friendships through understanding …
..and gain understanding through our friendships.

All WCI affiliated clubs are independent, non-political and non-religious. Many clubs engage in charitable work in their communities.