What is a University Chapter?
Chapters are the backbone of our organization since they actualize the People to People International ideal of increasing international understanding and education at the local level. As a member of a People to People International Chapter you are part of the PTPI international network.
What are the benefits of belonging?
Educational:
University chapters strive to work in conjunction with university curriculum to provide members with a "global education." A "global education" is the set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that prepare individuals to live and compete in an increasingly multicultural, interconnected, and fast changing global society.
"Global education" is not just for those planning to pursue international careers post-graduation; all careers have been affected by the globalization of our society.
International awareness, cultural understanding and a global perspective are skills essential to succeed in multiple fields including humanitarian work, healthcare, business, and sciences.
Career Enhancing:
Be a more global candidate for any position you apply for. As our world becomes more and more of a global community your international experience and understanding will make you more attractive to potential employers.
Resume builder – Your involvement in People to People International activities is impressive as you enter the professional world. Letters of recommendation and references are available through your contacts.
Networking – In today's employment scenario, where job opening are less than the number of people aspiring for them, networking is an effective tool to achieve your goals. PTPI has many networking opportunities especially if you plan to enter the international job market.
Personal Growth:
University Chapters are an opportunity for college and university students to participate in the advancement of world peace. They're a fun way for students to learn about various nations, cultures and world affairs through personal interaction. Student members received unique international opportunities through PTPI programs and programs developed by the chapter.
What do University Chapters do?
Chapters are required to complete a total of four programs annually, one from each of the following categories:
Community service at the local or international level
Examples:
- Participate in or plan an International Fair in your school or community.
- Discuss international career opportunities; introduce foods, music, art, dance and cultures from around the world.
Community service at the local or international level
Examples:
- Neighborhood clean up.
- Serving meals at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter.
- Volunteering time at local civic organization.
- Adopting an international project. PTPI can provide opportunities for international, humanitarian or community service projects.
Fund raising
Examples:
- Organize a bake sale, neighborhood yard sale, etc.
- Plan a chapter fundraising breakfast or dinner.
- There are numerous fundraising possibilities for chapter activities. Contact local businesses, restaurants, stores, sporting venues (work concession stand), explore local options.
Social event/membership recruitment drive
Examples:
- Invite friends to a specific event, for example a carnival or other social gathering.
- Create a contest: person who brings in the most new members will receive a prize. The local chapter can establish recruitment awards.
Five steps to forming a University Chapter
- Gather your group together. Chapters need to have a minimum of ten members and must elect at least four officers.
- Get it down on paper!
- Approve Chapter Bylaws, which are consistent with the by-laws of PTPI (sample provided);
- decide on projected activities intended to be undertaken by the chapter;
- complete the application for a charter;
- and include a list of chapter members.
- Appoint or elect a Campus Advisor. We require selecting a faculty or university staff member to fill this position. Campus Advisors are very important to the development and success of the University Chapter. Advisors act as mentor and provide guidance for the Chapter Board of Directors as well as all chapter members.
- Get your school's approval. A letter of confirmation from the College or University President is required to endorse that the student chapter is within the approved list of campus extra curricular activities.
- Let's make it official! When the complete application is submitted and if approved, PTPI Headquarters will issue a charter to our newest University Chapter!
I want to learn more!
To get your University Chapter start-up kit or for more information, please contact:
Theresa Stock Willmoth
People to People International
911 Main Street
Suite 2110
Kansas City, Missouri 64105 USA
816.531.4701 phone
816.561.7502 fax
Email: chapters@ptpi.org
www.ptpi.org
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