Founded in 2001, PeacePlayers International Middle East  uses the game of basketball to educate and unite Arab and Jewish children between the ages of 10-16 and they base their work on the simple yet powerful premise that "children who play together, can learn to live together."  The program has worked with over 2.400 children and uses basketball as a tool to unite youth in divided communities, to teach life lessons in sport and to develop leaders who will advocate peaceful coexistence with their friends and neighborhs. In addition to playing basketball on integrated teams, Arab and Jewish youth participate in dialogue, life skills sessions and leadership development. Christian and other organizations now have the opportunity to include an exciting peace-focued program as part of a tour to Israel and the Palestinian territories.

With a site visit to one of PPI - ME's programs, clients will come away with an intimate look into co-existence. Groups can visit teams in Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh, Abu Gosh, and Jaffa. PPI - ME teams are comprised of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim children playing together. Visitors can take part in joint practice or see PPI - ME's integrated teams compete in games and tournaments.    

Family groups can bring their children to practice with PPI-ME teams, allowing them to take part in these cross-cultural exchanges. Children can shoot hoops with their Arab and Jewish peers. Teen groups can participate in basketball clinics run by certified PPI-ME coaches and former American college basketball players and coaches. Visitors of all ages will enjoy seeing PPI - ME in action.  

To learn more about PeacePlayers International please visit www.peaceplayersintl.org