In partnership with Global Ties U.S. and the U.S. Department of State, Global Ties Kalamazoo we hosted Global Challenges: Building Locally Driven Solutions in Kalamazoo, a Global Ties U.S. Regional Summit and Learning Lab on July 11 and 12 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Thank you so much to all who attended and engaged with us. You can relive the experience and learn more at the links below.
The Summit explored civic engagement as a strategy to address social challenges we all face globally and locally. Based on program models currently in place in Kalamazoo, we examined innovative solutions to housing, education, workforce development, climate change, indigenous issues, and more. This was a wonderful opportunity to interact directly with diplomats and experts on the national and local levels and develop strong global networks. These connections play a critical role in citizen diplomacy programs, such as the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), which builds the trust needed to advance peace and prosperity.
Global Challenges: Building Locally Driven Solutions in Kalamazoo focused on 5 areas:
Growing your personal and professional networks through international exchange
Inspiring curiosity and fostering cooperative learning
Developing youth and workforce assets
Creating educational resources
Tackling deep social challenges through collaboration