Global Ties KC connects international emerging leaders in a variety of fields with their Midwest counterparts for the purpose of forging lasting relationships that may one day become a powerful tool for addressing some of our biggest global challenges. While in Kansas and Missouri, we provide international visitors with opportunities to cultivate deeper connections and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
For almost 70 years, Global Ties KC has facilitated citizen diplomacy in both Kansas and Missouri and provided our communities with opportunities to interact with other cultures. A special focus is placed on the next generation of leaders for whom we empower by hosting youth exchanges and our Youth Diplomats program.
Global Ties KC connects international emerging leaders in a variety of fields with their Midwest counterparts for the purpose of forging lasting relationships that may one day become a powerful tool for addressing some of our biggest global challenges. While in Kansas and Missouri, we provide international visitors with opportunities to cultivate deeper connections and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
For almost 70 years, Global Ties KC has facilitated citizen diplomacy in both Kansas and Missouri and provided our communities with opportunities to interact with other cultures. A special focus is placed on the next generation of leaders for whom we empower by hosting youth exchanges and our Youth Diplomats program.
Global Ties KC seeks individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds to host international visitors for dinner in their homes. Throughout our visitors’ time in the United States, home hospitality is often the most memorable experience of their trip. As a member of our community you have the opportunity to showcase what life is truly like in the United States beyond TV and media portrayals.
HOW IT WORKS
How home hospitality works
When visitors arrive in Kansas City, Global Ties KC staff will reach out on a rolling basis either through our monthly newsletter or an email with a date and visitor bio information. If the date aligns with the host’s schedule, the Global Ties KC staff will partner with you to create the home hospitality atmosphere you deserve to showcase to the visitors.
Please note that home hospitality will take place during weekday evenings or weekends.
The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Through short-term visits to the United States, current and emerging leaders in a variety of fields experience this country firsthand and cultivate lasting relationships with their American counterparts.
Over 500 past visitors to the U.S. on the International Visitor Leadership Program are current or former Heads of Government or Chiefs of State. Alumni include: President Nicolas Sarkozy of France, President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan, Prime Minister Gordon Brown of The United Kingdom, President Alvaro Uribe Velez of Colombia, President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya, President Anwar Sadat of Egypt, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi of India, Prime Minister Tony Blair of The United Kingdom, and President F.W. deKlerk of South Africa.
Traditional home hospitality means opening up your home to a small group of visitors (3-4), feeding them a home cooked meal, and engaging in conversation. The idea https://havan-bet.com/ is for international visitors to have a safe, casual space where they can learn about ‘average’ Americans. Break bread. Share stories of their work, family, and home country. Visitors will be dropped off and picked up by a rideshare service.
Our visitors spend most of their time eating in restaurants, and home hospitality is their main opportunity to eat a homemade meal and unwind. That said, we are open to alternative ways of hosting! Have some friends bring pieces of a potluck. Order in a pizza. Cook mac and cheese. No three-course meals are needed!
At times, visitors are able to take part in unconventional hospitality, cultural activities, etc. Additionally, we regularly have community events where we are joined by visitors as our featured guests and speakers.
Home hospitality is a shorter time commitment. You host visitors for a few hours for dinner.
Homestays are better suited for those seeking a longer commitment. Visitors will stay overnight at your home. Some programs require visitors to stay in local homes for 1-2 weeks. For more information on becoming a host, visit our homestays page.
ENGAGE WITH GLOBAL LEADERS
Sign up for the Global Ties KC mailing list to learn about upcoming opportunities for hosting international visitors.
