North Texas Council for International Visitors

As a non-profit organization, the mission of The North Texas Council for International Visitors is to provide quality service and programs to international visitors in the communities of North Texas. Comprised of hundreds of volunteers, the NTCIV coordinates professional appointments, home visits, cultural experiences, symposia, transportation, and language services thereby facilitating a personal connection between individuals in our communities to guests from around the world. NTCIV is made up of nine active standing committees that work with the National Council for International Visitors, the program agencies in Washington and the Department of State to ensure that each international guest to North Texas receives the best possible experience. Recent programs have addressed themes ranging from Counter-Terrorism and Women as Economic and Business Leaders to Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development. NTCIV actively supports other local educational and cultural exchange programs such as the Center for American and International Law in Plano, Tex., which just recently concluded its training program for nearly 70 young lawyers from around the world. NTCIV provided hospitality for these visitors through its network of volunteers. "We've seen the power of citizen diplomacy work to improve international relations," Chairman Will Wilkins said. "Some of the persons we've hosted in our homes have gone on to lead their nations. We recently received a letter from a Nigerian attorney who said her negative perceptions of the US changed as a result of her North Texas experience," Wilkins said. NTCIV is made up of nine active committees that work with the national office (NCIV) to ensure each international guest receives the best possible experience.