Connecting Kalamazoo to the World

Global Ties Kalamazoo Connects Southwest Michigan to people from all over the globe for cultural and professional connection, exploring our shared humanity.

What We Do

Upcoming Programs

Featured

Freedom 250: Youth in the Political Process

Jun 26

June 26, 2026 – July 1, 2026

Freedom 250: Youth in the Political Process

June 26, 2026 – July 1, 2026

As part of the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, a multi-regional group of professionals from Ghana, Lebanon, Mexico, Palestine, Somalia and South Africa, along with one liaison will be in Kalamazoo from June 26-July 1 to explore civic engagement and governmental roles in elections and democracy.

June 26, 2026 – July 1, 2026

IYLEP (Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program)

Jul 15

July 15, 2026 – July 28, 2026

IYLEP (Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program)

July 15, 2026 – July 28, 2026

July 15 through 28, we'll be hosting 20 Iraqi youth and 3 adult mentors through the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP). Rescheduled from Summer 2025, we're looking for families to open their homes for overnight hosting.

July 15, 2026 – July 28, 2026

Aug 28

August 28, 2026 – October 30, 2026

IJAB/CIP German Social Worker Exchange Program

August 28, 2026 – October 30, 2026

This fall, two German social workers will spend September through October in Kalamazoo as part of a professional exchange. We're looking for hosts who can offer them a place to stay for two weeks to two months.

August 28, 2026 – October 30, 2026

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Enriching local community with global diversity,
one relationship at a time.

Latest News

Featured

June 30, 2026

Host Families Needed: Welcome 20 Iraqi Teens to Kalamazoo

June 30, 2026

Global Ties Kalamazoo is urgently seeking home and family hosts for 20 Iraqi high school students visiting this summer through the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP), July 15-28.