Grand Island / Nebraska / United States
The Grand Island Area Council for International Visitors originally began receiving International Visitors in 1975. The council was reorganized in 1997. The GIACIV is an all volunteer organization interested in sharing knowledge of life and skills in a medium size community in Central United States. Grand Island Area Council for International Visitors is a member of the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) based in Washington, D.C. under the auspices of the United States Department of State. NCIV is a national network of program agencies and community-based organizations. These non-profit groups design and implement professional programs and provide cultural activities and home hospitality opportunities for foreign leaders, specialists and international visitors. The community-based organizations match the resources of their commentates with the needs of the international guests. Each is dependent on a corps of volunteers who serve as professional resources, mentors and hospitality hosts. Arrangements for visitors must be negotiated and planned in advance with NCIV members in the city to be visited. GIACIVs mission is to contribute to the economic, social and cultural development of the Grand Island area through programs and services promoting mutual respect and understanding among the people of Central Nebraska and the world. Hosting and homestays with GIACIV members are an important part of the International Visitors experiences. The International Visitors are invaluable contacts for Nebraska, seeking to build global networks and develop international friendships.
