Public Programming
Hosting International Leaders for Dinner
Through our International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), we welcome international visitors to Wisconsin each month. They are brought to the U.S. by the Department of State to participate in professional exchanges. These emerging leaders represent a variety of fields: global economics, agriculture, law enforcement, STEM, education, journalism, government, judiciary, youth, women’s leadership.
Visitors travel to 3 to 4 cities across the U.S over 3 weeks. During their visit, these emerging leaders enjoy the opportunity to sit down and share a meal with American citizens. Visitors are excited to experience American cuisine, culture and traditions. Meals may be home-cooked, pot-lucks and picnics, with a local family, a group of friends, or an organization.
If you are interested in hosting visitors for dinner during 1 night and serving as a citizen diplomat, please contact us for further details at international@iiwisconsin.org.
Testimonials from our Hospitality Dinner hosts:
“I’ve been hosting international visitors through the International Institute for years and can honestly say that all of my experiences have been terrific. There’s something about sharing a meal that overcomes barriers of culture and language. Despite our different backgrounds, we always discover commonalties that make for an interesting and fun evening together. I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet people from around the world and to practice a bit of citizen diplomacy without even leaving home.”
-Dave, Oak Creek, WI
“We’ve had Japanese experts in nuclear power plant safety, a journalist released from prison for her coverage just before her trip, an activist for women’s rights who was informed during her trip that her life was in danger if she returned home. One dinner was with Canadians who work with indigenous peoples in fields ranging from ecology to theater. I’m still in touch with a number of our past guests, and may be visiting some of them in their countries in future. You’ll love hosting too!”
-Eileen, Milwaukee, WI
Become a Homestay Host for International Fellows
As a host, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from around the world, share local culture, and create lasting connections.
The professional fellows are part of the Professional Fellows Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by American Councils for International Education.
The Professional Fellows Program is a two-way, global exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, as well as build lasting, sustainable partnerships. PFP participants are placed in 4-week fellowships in various sectors across the United States for an individually tailored professional development experience.
Homestay Requirements:
- Complete the Host Family Application and background check for anyone over the age of 18 years
- Provide a private room with a door that can be locked
- Arrange breakfast and dinner for the fellow
What you need to know:
- Hosts can be individuals or families including those with or without kids
- Hosts can request a stipend towards their groceries in a form of a prepaid grocery card
- Hosts should live near a bus line or be able to drive the fellow
Benefits of Becoming a Homestay Host
- Enriching experience by exchanging knowledge and cultures
- Building lifelong connections and networks
- Become part of a global initiative and gain recognition for your contributions
If you would like to learn more about the Professional Fellow Program, please contact us at international@iiwisconsin.org .
Serve as a Citizen Diplomat
Citizen Diplomacy is the concept that every individual has the right to help shape U.S. foreign relations “one handshake at a time.” As a Citizen Diplomat, you will have the opportunity to play an active role in fostering cross-cultural understanding, building bridges, and promoting peace. You will engage with international visitors and contribute to enriching their experience while providing a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. This is a unique opportunity for individuals who are passionate about global engagement and international relations.
As a Citizen Diplomat Volunteer, you may be asked to leverage your areas of expertise to:
- Accompany International Leaders to Cultural Events
Attend local cultural events, exhibitions, and performances with international visitors, helping them engage with the local community and understand U.S. culture.
- Invite International Visitors to Networking Events
Extend invitations to visitors for networking events hosted by your organization, helping to facilitate connections and broaden professional and cultural understanding.
- Serve as a Host Organization for International Fellows
Welcome and support international fellows by providing assistance with settling in, introducing them to local culture, and offering advice on local customs, resources, and services.
- Volunteer Alongside International Visitors
Work alongside international visitors in community service projects, professional initiatives, or educational programs, contributing to a collaborative, hands-on approach to cultural exchange.
- Invite Visitors to Attend Your Classes, Lectures, or Seminars
Open your academic or professional setting to international visitors by inviting them to attend your classes, seminars, or public lectures, providing them with educational insights into local issues or subjects of interest.
- Translate Materials
Assist in translating educational materials, brochures, or other resources that will help international visitors better understand the programs and activities you are involved with.
- Accompany Visitors to Places of Worship
Accompany visitors to local places of worship to offer them an authentic experience and create opportunities for interfaith dialogue and understanding.
- Recruit Dinner Hosts and Homestay Hosts
Help identify and recruit local families or individuals who are willing to host international visitors for meals or extended stays, facilitating personal connections and fostering deeper cultural exchanges.
