Volunteers play a crucial role in organizing and running the summit. The Summit Volunteer Committee runs the Summit jointly with CIE and is in charge of the recruitment and management of volunteers.

Volunteer "keypersons" are appointed to manage "local sessions" in various locations within the summit region. The local session includes a program of locally organized activities as well as a home stay.

Volunteers from around the country are also responsible for organizing "optional programs". These take place in former summit locations and give participants a chance to experience and compare life in a different part of the host country.

Supporting the Volunteer Committee and the keypersons are thousands of ordinary volunteers. Their warmth, dedication and passion ensure that all participants enjoy a rewarding Summit experience.

Grassroots Summits have been held in America and Japan for the past 21 years. Each year an average of 200 people travel across the Pacific to take part. Including host participants, more than 35,000 people have participated in this grassroots exchange.