How Exchanges Actually Work
A step-by-step guide for classrooms and community groups
One of the most common questions we receive:
How does the Peace Crane Exchange actually work?
The process is intentionally simple. We do not assign partners or manage shipping. Instead, we provide resource materials and a curated exchange list to help classrooms and community groups connect directly.
Here’s how it works.
1. Sign Up to Be on the Exchange List
Educators, librarians, scout leaders, museums, families, individuals, and community groups may sign up through our website.
Once approved, your listing will include:
Group name
Location (you may answer as precisely or as vaguely as you choose)
Ages
Number of Participants
Photos (if you choose to upload them)
Any comments you choose to share. “We are looking for exchange partners for Peace Day,” or “We are learning French and want to exchange letters,” are examples of what others have posted.
Your email address is required, but it NEVER appears on the website.
2. Browse the Exchange List
When you’re ready to participate, use the Exchange List page to sort through those currently looking for Exchange Partners. The map highlights everyone’s location. The filters can help you choose by country, age range, or group size.
You are free to:
Connect locally
Connect internationally
Exchange with one partner
Exchange with many schools or groups
The choice is yours.
3. Reach Out Directly
You may contact the group you wish to exchange with directly from their listing. Once you send a message to your prospective exchange partner, your email address is automatically revealed to them and their response is sent directly to you.
Together, you decide:
Number of cranes to send
Whether letters, postcards, videos, drawings, etc are included
Timeline
Mailing details (Email-only exchanges are fine, if it works for both you and your exchange partner.)
The exchange is self-directed and flexible.
4. Fold and Prepare Your Cranes
Each student folds a crane. Or a heart. Or a dove. Younger participants sometimes send artwork only. Many groups also include:
Pen-pal letters
Drawings
Photos of their classroom
A small explanation about their city or school
There is no required script. The goal is authentic connection.
5. Mail and Receive
You ship directly to your partner group. Postage costs are covered by the participating groups. There are ways to both reduce your shipping costs and ensure delivery. Please read this post for tips on shipping. There’s an art to it!
When cranes arrive, most groups choose to:
Display them in their classroom or library
Share with family and friends, or issue a press release for the community to appreciate their efforts
Download their Certificate of Participation (Please share your photos with us. Obscuring faces is fine, if you choose to do so. We love to share them with the world!)
Post on social media
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you match groups for us?
No. We provide the exchange list so you can choose a partner that feels right for your group.
What if a group doesn’t respond?
Occasionally, schedules shift, or plans change. This is why we encourage participants to choose more than one group. We also encourage you to let us know. All listings automatically expire after three months, unless the group leader chooses to renew. We also highlight Top Exchangers on the exchange list. This distinction is earned by completing a successful exchange. Despite these efforts, sometimes exchanges fall through. If you do not hear back, please let us know so we can remove the non-responder from the list, and then simply reach out to another group.
Is there a required number of cranes?
No. Exchanges can be any size. We encourage groups to agree on numbers ahead of time.
What ages can participate?
All ages. We have seen exchanges between:
Preschool classes
Elementary schools
High school students
University groups
Community clubs and organizations
Senior Living residents
Folding can be adapted to any age level.
Do exchanges have to be international?
Not at all. Many groups begin with exchanges within their own community, city, state or country. Sometimes, the most rewarding exchanges can be with those closest to you
A Final Note
The Peace Crane Exchange is built on three principles:
Accessibility – Minimal materials. A square of paper is enough.
Direct Connection – Groups communicate with each other.
Autonomy – Each exchange is unique and self-designed.
If you’re ready to join, you can sign up HERE.
We look forward to welcoming you.
— The Peace Crane Project Team