Program Statement
of Opening Doors, Opening Minds
For decades, hostel travel has changed the way people perceive each other and the world. Today – in the face of the tensions and violent conflicts that shake our world – Hostelling International USA’s Opening Doors, Opening Minds initiative uses hostelling to transform young people into catalysts for intercultural exchange and understanding.The Opening Doors, Opening Minds initiative reflects the hostelling mission and shapes its program elements:
“Opening Doors, Opening Minds seeks to build a new generation of global citizens …
- unburdened by damaging stereotypes,
- emboldened by open minds,
- appreciative of their own heritage, and
- understanding of others
… through the dialogue and education that comes from HI-USA reaching out to new audiences and program partners, and delivering to those we serve meaningful experiences with other peoples, places and cultures through hostelling.”
