A Kalamazoo-based citizen diplomacy organization, Global Ties Kalamazoo (formerly Colleagues International) enriches local community with global diversity, one relationship at a time. We are committed to making Kalamazoo a more globally engaged community, drawing strength from international exchange, while enriching the professional, cultural and personal lives of local residents and visitors from around the world. Since our start in 1971, we have hosted thousands of international visitors representing more than 100 countries. We offer educational and cultural exchanges for emerging and established leaders, internships, job-shadowing, youth leadership programs, and more. Each program is tailored to meet the specific interests and needs of participants, both locally and internationally. Global Ties Kalamazoo is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and a proud member of the Global Ties network. We are celebrating 50 years of creating international connections in 2021. Most of our visitors come to us through the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program. We offer long-term (one to four month) J-1 Visa training programs for professional development in many fields, especially youth development and social services. We have been hosting social workers in long-term exchange since 1971.