EN · Sacramento, CA

Programs

Host International Visitors

Bring the world to your table.

Global Sacramento connects international leaders with the people and communities that make our region unique.

Through the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and other international exchange programs, Global Sacramento welcomes emerging and established leaders from around the world to the Sacramento region.

While professional meetings are an important part of every exchange, some of the most meaningful experiences happen outside the conference room. By welcoming international visitors into your home or sharing a meal together, you can help create genuine connections, cultural understanding, and friendships that extend far beyond a visitor’s time in Sacramento.

Become a Citizen Diplomat

You don’t need to be a diplomat to practice diplomacy.

Global Sacramento invites individuals, couples, and families from across the Sacramento region to welcome international visitors for a meal or, when opportunities arise, a short homestay.

Hosting gives international guests the chance to experience everyday life in our community while giving Sacramento residents a unique opportunity to meet people from around the world. These personal connections are often among the most memorable parts of an international exchange.

A simple welcome can create a lasting global connection.

Ways to Host

Dinner Diplomacy

Share a meal. Exchange stories. Make a connection.

Dinner Diplomacy brings a small group of international visitors together with local residents for an informal meal and conversation.

You might prepare dinner at home, host a backyard barbecue, organize a potluck with friends, or meet for a picnic at a local park. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—the goal is simply to create a relaxed environment where people can talk, learn about one another, and experience Sacramento through the people who live here.

Global Sacramento will match hosts with a small group of international visitors and coordinate the details with you in advance.

Homestays

Open your home—and offer a visitor a personal window into life in Sacramento.

Occasionally, international exchange programs include opportunities for visitors to stay with local residents for several nights. Homestays provide visitors with a deeper experience of American daily life while creating an extraordinary opportunity for hosts and guests to develop meaningful relationships.

Homestays are less frequent than Home Hospitality opportunities and typically last several nights.

Why Host?

Global connections start locally.

International exchange isn’t only about traveling abroad. Sometimes the most powerful way to experience the world is to welcome it into your own community.

By becoming a Global Sacramento host, you can:

  • Meet fascinating people and emerging leaders from around the world
  • Introduce international visitors to Sacramento and Northern California
  • Learn firsthand about other countries and cultures
  • Give your family a meaningful international experience at home
  • Build friendships and professional connections across borders
    Play a direct role in
  • citizen diplomacy and international understanding

Every conversation contributes to a more connected Sacramento—and a more connected world.

Express Your Interest in Hosting

Your table can connect Sacramento to the world.

Join our community of Citizen Diplomats and help give international visitors a warm Sacramento welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will I host?

Global Sacramento welcomes international visitors from countries around the world through professional and cultural exchange programs. Many participate in the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), the United States’ premier professional exchange program that brings current and emerging international leaders to communities across the United States to meet their American counterparts, exchange ideas, and build long-term relationships. Visitors represent a wide range of professions and interests—from government and business to education, sustainability, technology, arts, and civil society.

Who will I host?

Global Sacramento welcomes international visitors from countries around the world through professional and cultural exchange programs. Many participate in the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), the United States’ premier professional exchange program. Visitors represent a wide range of professions and interests—from government, business, and economic development to education, journalism, sustainability, technology, arts and culture, and civil society.

Who can become a host?

Anyone with an interest in meeting people from around the world can participate. You don’t need international experience, a particular professional background, or a large home. What matters most is curiosity, hospitality, and a willingness to share a little of life in Sacramento. Individuals, couples, families, retirees, young professionals, and longtime Sacramento residents can all make wonderful hosts.

Where does hosting take place?

Hosting opportunities take place throughout the greater Sacramento region. Most Home Hospitality experiences take place in a host’s home, but we welcome creative alternatives. A backyard gathering, neighborhood potluck, or picnic in a local park can be just as meaningful. Homestays take place in the host’s home.

Do visitors speak English?

Many visitors speak English. When needed, professional interpreters accompany participants so hosts and visitors can communicate comfortably.

What about dietary requirements?

Global Sacramento will let you know about relevant dietary restrictions, allergies, religious considerations, or other needs before your guests arrive. We’ll work with you to make hosting as straightforward as possible.

How will visitors get to me?

Transportation arrangements vary by program and location. Global Sacramento will coordinate transportation details with you in advance so you know exactly what to expect.

Do I have to cook?

Not at all. Sharing a home-cooked meal can be a wonderful experience, but hospitality matters much more than what’s on the menu. Order takeout from your favorite Sacramento restaurant, host with a friend who loves to cook, or organize a casual picnic. There’s no need for a formal dinner. The conversation is the important part.

What should I expect?

When we have an upcoming hosting opportunity, Global Sacramento will contact prospective hosts with information about the visiting delegation, including their country, professional focus, dates, and hosting needs. If you’re interested and available, our team will work with you to coordinate the details, including the number of guests, timing, transportation, dietary considerations, and anything else you need to know.

How often do I need to host?

 There is no expectation that you host every group. Opportunities will be shared throughout the year, and you can participate whenever your schedule and interests allow. Even hosting once can make a meaningful contribution to Sacramento’s international community.

Stay Connected to the World

Sign up for Global Sacramento updates to hear about visiting international delegations, community engagement programs, events, hosting opportunities, and other ways to get involved.

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