Missoula International Friendship Program
About Missoula International Friendship Program
At Missoula International Friendship Program, University of Montana international students are paired with local residents for semester-long or year-long friendship matches that make a new city feel a little less new. The program also brings people together through gatherings, student activities, and practical information about culture shock, so the connection does not stop at introductions. If you care about international students finding real community in Missoula, this is the kind of steady, human work that matters.
MIFP centers friendship matches with Community Friends, so the relationship grows at a pace that feels personal rather than formal. It also keeps the welcome going with recurring events and student activity support, which gives students more chances to connect with the Missoula community.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
Community Friends friendship matches
Pairs University of Montana international students with local residents, called Community Friends, for semester-long or year-long friendship matches.
Cultural exchange activities
Supports occasional get-togethers, shared leisure activities, and family activities that help students and Community Friends learn about one another's cultures.
Annual community events
Hosts recurring events for active Community Friends and international students, including meet and greets, potlucks, and end-of-year celebrations.
Student activity support
Provides funds for international students' activities such as educational field trips, welcome dinners, and an end-of-year barbecue.
Culture shock education
Offers information that helps people understand culture shock and how it affects people in different ways.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
To provide a community hospitality and educational program for University of Montana foreign students and scholars, and to increase opportunities for intercultural awareness. The Missoula International Friendship Program promotes international awareness and friendship between international students and scholars at the University of Montana and the greater Missoula community.
Who they serve
International students and scholars at the University of Montana, together with local Missoula residents who participate as Community Friends.
How your donation helps
- International students' activities
- Educational field trips
- Welcome dinners
- End-of-year barbecues
- Annual events and volunteer support
- Annual silent auction and bake sale fundraising for student activities
Our story
The Missoula International Friendship Program began in 1980, when a small group of Missoula citizens created an organization focused on global education and international friendships. Over time, it grew into a community-based, all-volunteer program that pairs University of Montana international students with local residents to encourage intercultural awareness.
Need help?
How someone in need can access Missoula International Friendship Program’s services.
International students complete the online application and are matched with a Community Friend at the beginning of the semester. Community Friends are assigned to one or more students for a semester or year, and MIFP sends contact information after the match is made.
In their words
"Missoula is a great place to share with students from around the world. Whether you like spending time inside or outside there is always something to do," said Ann Nowak.
"I think that one of the strengths of the MIFP is reaching out to students who are far away from all that is home and making them feel welcome," said Adair Kanter.
"All the folks at MIFP have a desire to meet new students from around the world and make them welcome in Missoula. Making peace in the world one friend at a time," said Joycee Dozier.
"One of the best parts of my job is working with the wonderful volunteers of MIFP and with the generous and dedicated Community Friends of MIFP and seeing the amazing goodwill and cross-cultural friendships that result," said Mona Mondava.
Events
Ice Cream Meet & Greet
annualA September meet and greet for newly matched students and Community Friends.
Fall Potluck
annualAn October gathering where international students and Community Friends share food and celebrate each other's culinary backgrounds.
Spring Potluck
annualA February potluck where Community Friends make an international dish with their student.
Annual Silent Auction and Bake Sale at the International Culture and Food Festival
annualA fundraising event with donated international items, dinners, and cooking classes to support UM international students' activities.
End of Year Celebration for International Students
annualA spring semester barbecue for international students held with board members, international student organizations, and the International Student Association.
Ways to help
Concrete needs and volunteer roles Missoula International Friendship Program has shared.
Current needs
- New Community Friends
- Donated items for the annual silent auction
- Volunteers for annual events
- Support for international students' activities
Volunteer opportunities
- Apply to become a Community Friend
- Volunteer for annual events
- Help with the annual silent auction and bake sale
- Support international students' activities through event participation
Partners & funders
In the news
Articles featuring Missoula International Friendship Program from the Love What You Fund newsroom.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
How long is a Community Friend matched with an international student?
A Community Friend is matched with a student for one semester or a year.
Does the program require a home-stay?
No. This program does not involve home-stays.
How often do Community Friends and students meet?
MIFP suggests getting together at least once a month, and more often if both people agree.
How do international students join MIFP?
Students fill out the online application and are matched with a Community Friend at the start of the semester.
How does MIFP communicate with Community Friends?
MIFP mainly communicates with Community Friends by email.