International Video PenPal (IVP) Program

First, it increases the foreign language skills of the students participating on both sides (unless it is an English-speaking country with whom the US kids are writing and video-logging). Secondly, it teaches technology skills and the students learn how to make a very short video documentary. Third, through the use of both letters and video with sights and sounds, it exposes the students to new worlds and widens their global perspective. They learn the similarities that exist between people everywhere, and they begin to break down international and intercultural barriers. It exposes them to life in other forms and redefines words like poverty and wealth in new contexts on both sides. Students actually tend to perform better academically. Fourth, it teaches them to be less self-focused and more others-focused as they learn to be more responsible and consider others through the power of service and fundraising materials for their IVPs. Lastly, it raises up a generation of leader-raising, peacemaking, tolerant, serving individuals who will have an even better understanding of others in our world from a much earlier age.