The World at Your Table – An Evening of Home Hospitality
Citizen Diplomacy is a vital part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
The IVLP, led by the U.S. Department of State, connects 5,000 global leaders with American counterparts each year. Nominated by U.S. Embassies, participants engage in exchanges that strengthen America's role on the world stage.
Home hospitality is a key part of the program, where volunteers invite international leaders into U.S. homes for meals and conversation, fostering lasting connections that promote global collaboration and advance America's values of security and prosperity.
Apply here or request more information today
Participant Testimonials
"I felt very welcome, and the host gave me a glimpse of their lives. I met people who were not only extremely friendly but also very interested in my lifestyle and background. I had such an amazing time that one evening was simply too short and time flew by. Hopefully I will see them in the future again, so we can continue where we left off. Thank you so much for this opportunity, it really was an amazing addition to the IVLP program!”
"They were really curious about the country we are from, about people, social and public health situation and especially history. It was a delightful experience for us and, I want to believe, for the host and her lovely friends...I would definitely encourage the home dinner part of the program, because it is a unique experience about the life of people in United States."
FAQ
Can I be a home host?
Yes! If your household is eager to welcome and engage with international participants, then you are a great fit to apply to join our network. Home hosts can also welcome participants in homes, condos, apartments, and shared community spaces.
How do I become a home host volunteer?
To learn more about becoming a home hospitality volunteer, please fill out this form (Home Host Volunteer Application). A member of the Meridian Collaborative Services team will be in touch.
What is the time commitment for being a Home Hospitality volunteer?
Hosting a group usually takes 2-3 hours of a weekday evening or weekend. While there is no minimum number of hosting commitments required to become a host, we encourage our network to host 1-2 times per year to have regular engagement with our IVLP participants and program. By becoming a part of our network, you will have the opportunity to learn about the variety of groups coming to the DC area!
How do you match groups to hosts?
We strive to match participants to home hosts in a manner that benefits both parties. We like to set up matches that consider interest areas, professional backgrounds, and even personal connections to different countries. For example, we have home hosts fluent in different languages, others who have cultural heritage connected to a specific country, and others who have a wide variety of interests and passions from politics to visual arts to sports. No matter your background, interests, or work, we will work to set you up with the best matches.
How do home hosts learn about specific hosting opportunities?
Assignments are often made based on host availability. In an email request sent to our home hospitality volunteer base, we share general information about the group’s topical area of focus to help determine if you may connect with the group on shared interest areas! You are always welcome and encouraged to invite other guests, such as friends and family, to join the activity or meal. An interpreter will be assigned to accompany the participants should this be required by varying language abilities.
What kind of a meal should I serve?
This should be a casual experience, and the meal served does not need to be elaborate. Dietary restrictions, smoking, and pet concerns will be clearly stated in advance. Additionally, if you prefer not to host a meal but rather invite participants over for coffee or a neighborhood activity, we’d love to hear your ideas.
How long should the meal be?
The appropriate length of time for home hospitality is completely at the host’s discretion, but you should plan for about two hours. Depending on how the conversation goes, the time may be more or less. The host should always feel comfortable setting a limit and politely giving notice when it’s time to wrap things up.
What about transportation?
Participant transportation is provided by the program and coordinated by our team.
What happens afterward?
We encourage you to follow up with citizendiplomat@meridian.org. Speak freely about your experience and give us any thoughts or suggestions to enhance future home hospitalities. If you know of anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer, please have them contact citizendiplomat@meridian.org.