The International Churchill Society (formerly The Churchill Centre) was originally founded in 1968. This umbrella organization for the Churchill enthusiast is dedicated to educating new generations on the leadership and statesmanship of Churchill. With branches throughout the United States, and chapters and affiliate organizations in Australia, Canada, Israel, Portugal and the UK, the Society combines being a membership organization with charitable programs and conferences. It sponsors an International Churchill Conference and numerous regional events; Churchill tours in Britain, Australia, France, South Africa and Morocco; academic symposia; student seminars; and the periodic Churchill Lecture, in which prominent world figures apply Churchill's experience to today's issues.