A delegation of 25 Arab-Israeli, Jewish-Israeli, and Palestinian youngsters and their coaches made a two-week trip to the United States cosponsored by Peace Players International and Friedman Billings Ramsey, an Arlington, Va., investment firm.

The visit, held July 13-27, included educational programs in Washington, DC, and sports clinics at the Achievements Unlimited Basketball Camp in Greensboro, NC.

The ambassador/athletes, ranging in age from 12 to 16, were selected by their local coaches and PPI coordinators from communities in Israel and the West Bank, including Abu Ghosh, Beit Hanina, Beit Safafa, Beit Shemesh, Esawiah, Givat Gonen, Jericho, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.

The kids met with professional basketball players in Greensboro and joined with the FBR branch of the Boys and Girls Club in Washington for visits to the Capitol, the White House, museums, and other attractions.

The trip ended with a basketball tournament at the Boys and Girls Club in southeast Washington.

"Our local programs in conflict zones around the world provide a safe haven for kids who live in communities of unrest and violence," said PPI founder Brendan Tuohey. "By building on the mutual love of the game, unbelievably strong friendships and an enhanced global appreciation have emerged."

Rock Tonkel, president and COO of FBR, said, "Our highest priority in our charitable works is to improve the education and life experiences of at-risk youth and families in our community. The joy of sport certainly knows no geographic or political boundaries. We are proud to partner with PPI and look forward to witnessing deeper international awareness and the power of friendship among the participants through this eye-opening and life-changing program."

PPI is a nonprofit organization that uses basketball to unite and educate young athletes and their communities. Since its inception in 2001, PPI has reached more than 45,000 children in global conflict zones, launching international programs in Israel and the West Bank, Northern Ireland, South Africa, and Cyprus.