Grand Island Area Council For International Visitors "The Heartland welcomes the world" The Grand Island Area Council for International Visitors originally began receiving International Visitors in 1975. The council was reorganized in 1997. The GIACIV is an all volunteer organization interested in sharing knowledge of life and skills in a medium size community in Central United States. Grand Island Area Council for International Visitors is a member of the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) based in Washington, D.C. under the auspices of the United States Department of State. NCIV is a national network of program agencies and community-based organizations. These non-profit groups design and implement professional programs and provide cultural activities and home hospitality opportunities for foreign leaders, specialists and international visitors. The community-based organizations match the resources of their commentates with the needs of the international guests. Each is dependent on a corps of volunteers who serve as professional resources, mentors and hospitality hosts. Arrangements for visitors must be negotiated and planned in advance with NCIV members in the city to be visited. GIACIV's mission is to contribute to the economic, social and cultural development of the Grand Island area through programs and services promoting mutual respect and understanding among the people of Central Nebraska and the world. Hosting and homestays with GIACIV members are an important part of the International Visitor's experiences. The International Visitors are invaluable contacts for Nebraska, seeking to build global networks and develop international friendships. Central Nebraska offers the International Visitor a unique experience in the heartland of the USA. Area resources such as agriculture, industry, water, environment, telecommunications, government, hospitality and education can give the visitors a look at the "good life" Nebraskans enjoy.

Board Members Grand Island Area Events Membership Application Area Features Contact: Roger Andrews U.S. Heartland in Central Nebraska I-80 (E&W) and NE 281 (N&S) Grand Island, NE 68801 rajandws@kdsi.net fax: (308) 384-7946 Who should join GIACIV Individuals, families or business who. . . Look to expand their knowledge of other cultures Seek to make international contacts; Want to meet tomorrow's leaders today; Promote Central Nebraska internationally.