One of CIR’s most successful programs is the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), a State Department-sponsored program that brings foreigners to the U.S. for a personal view of our country and its people.  Based on the idea of “citizen diplomacy,” participants meet with community leaders in their industry or field to learn more about how things are done in the United States.

Groups range from one to more than 20 and their visit focuses on a topic of mutual professional or personal interest to the group.  They spend a week in Washington, D.C. learning how the U.S. functions (for example, the federal system, role of NGO’s, citizen participation, religious diversity, and other aspects), and then visit three or four cities.  Their itinerary is coordinated for the State Department by one of several private organizations in Washington.

These visitors are emerging leaders in government, politics, business, education, sciences, the arts, healthcare and other important fields.  They are selected by American Embassies based on promise in their fields within their own countries.

CIR, as a member of the National Council for International Visitors, hosts over 300 international visitors per year as part of this program.  CIR volunteers arrange visits with local leaders, serve as chaperones, and host visitors in their homes for dinner.  Visitors report that these personal exchanges are the most enriching and memorable aspects of their visit, providing them with insight into the lives of individual Americans. 

Santa Fe is a popular destination for many reasons.  Due to its small size, government officials and heads of businesses and foundations are readily accessible and have been generous in providing information about their responsibilities.  The cultural diversity of Santa Fe is unique, with a wide range of ethnic, religious and artistic participation.  Visitors have access to leaders in federal, state, municipal and tribal governments, as well as foundations, artistic groups and charitable organizations.  In addition, CIR members, many of whom have traveled extensively or lived abroad in Peace Corp assignments, private industry or embassy work, are active in promoting cultural exchanges.

Since its inception, Santa Fe CIR has welcomed more than 5,000 international visitors.   These visitors would not have come to Santa Fe without the dedication of CIR volunteers.  Worldwide contacts for trade relations, business ventures and cultural exchanges have ensued.

For a description of how you can become involved in this program, please see the Volunteer page under Membership.