Professional & cultural exchange program for social workers and youth workers

CIF-USA
Council of International Fellowship-United States of America

The international exchange programs offer professional, cultural and educational exchange opportunities. The program combines practical and theoretical information about the social and cultural environment of the host country beside cross-cultural exchange the participants who come from many different countries.

The following CIF National Branches have announced their professional exchange programs click here.

How to apply

Applicants are expected to have a minimum of two or three years professional experience. For more detailed eligibility requirements, length of stay, application deadlines and other details, please contact the person at your National Branch.

Application form PDF, DOC

Components of a typical exchange program

 Orientation

The orientation of a program is aimed at providing a theoretical framework to understand the social, economic and cultural trends prevalent in the country with a historical perspective, building group cohesiveness, tolerance and understanding.

Experience in a multicultural group

Every participant presents work methods and intervention strategies, as well as the socioeconomic situation and cultural trends of her/his own country. This facilitates cultural exchange, cross-cultural training, and sharing of ideas and skills.

Agency Placements

Participants are placed to train in agencies related to their own specialized field, to observe and experience professional social work in the host country.

Host Family Living

Living with host families provides participants with an unique cultural experience that enriches the understanding and tolerance of diversities and develops lasting cross-cultural friendships.

Evaluation

Evaluation offers participants an opportunity to clarify new gained impressions, knowledge and experience, in order to assess the effectiveness of the program.
 

The difference between CIF-USA and CIPUSA:

 CIF-USA’s major role is to interview U.S. citizens who are social workers or a related human service professional looking to participate in a professional and cultural exchange experience abroad. CIF-USA works with 30 affiliate programs worldwide supporting U.S. social workers before they go abroad. To apply for a CIF program, fill out the application or contact Carolyn Sutton at carolyn.sutton8@gmail.com for more information. After a participant has completed a professional exchange program it is highly recommended to join the CIF-USA organization. Click here for an application. CIF-USA is solely for U.S. citizens going abroad for programs.

CIPUSA is based in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, and is the umbrella organization for several affiliates in the United States. CIPUSA provides professional training and cultural experiences for non U.S. social workers coming to the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen and are looking for a training experience in the United States you can contact CIPUSA or email lisapurdy@cipusa.com who places international social workers throughout the U.S.

CIF-USA and CIPUSA partner together on recruitment and placement of social workers.

PEP Programs