International Institute of Wisconsin

The International Institute of Wisconsin is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of international cooperation, understanding and a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural perspective through education, exchange, communication, social activities, arts and immigration and citizenship services.

Founded in 1936, IIW is currently in its 75th year serving a wide variety of cultural, social and educational needs in the state of Wisconsin. There are four main departments through which IIW fulfills its mission:

Immigration, which also includes refugee resettlement and combating human trafficking, has as its main goal to aid in the development of strong families. This is accomplished though case management for newly arrived refugees or assistance in applying for permanent residency and citizenship

The translation and interpretation department aims to provide comprehensive language services through a roster of over 150 trained interpreters who speak over 50 languages collectively.

The International Visitor's Leadership Program, a national program through the Department of State, promotes citizen diplomacy by designing and coordinating meetings for international leaders with their counterparts or experts in their field and providing home hospitality and cultural events during their stay in Wisconsin.

IIW also provides numerous educational programs and presentations for schools, museums, local organizations and the general public throughout the year. Most notably, IIW has hosted the Holiday Folk Fair International for over 65 years. This annual celebration takes place at Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, and is a three day event celebrating culture and diversity by bringing together over 30 ethnic groups to showcase their unique traditions.