News Details

Programs to strengthen Indiana’s global connections have received major renewed support through a $500,000 grant awarded to the International Center of Indianapolis (ICI) by Lilly Endowment Inc., it was announced today.  The funds will be used by the International Center for programs in 2010.

 “We’re honored to receive this generous funding from Lilly Endowment,” said Diane G. Thomas, the International Center’s President and CEO.  “We appreciate the trust the Endowment has placed in the Center’s work of promoting Indiana as a state that attracts international activity and welcomes the significant contributions of our multinational community.”

Thomas noted, “Three overarching strengths, unique to the Center, form the basis for the Center’s proposed 2010 programs.  These strengths are in citizen diplomacy, welcoming international visitors and new residents to Indiana, and training for global competency, which provides tools to more effectively work in an international environment.  We plan to continue well-established programs, as well as institute new initiatives that will be natural progressions of existing ones – to advance the dynamic international dimension of our city and state.”

According to Thomas, “What links all of the Center’s programs is the importance of both individual and organizational relationships.  The Center is proud to serve as the connector among all sectors of our community.”

ICI’s current programs include:

• Connection with emerging leaders from other countries through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) of the U.S. Department of State;
• Training for global competency for employees, government agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations;
• The Office of Protocol, which offers consultation and planning to enhance development of important international relationships;
• Providing tools to assist new international residents and visitors in learning about local resources; and
• Participation in official ceremonies naturalizing new citizens and education of students about the path to U.S. citizenship.

To date in 2009, the International Center has coordinated visits from over 160 international visitors from more than 50 countries to Central Indiana.  Through its Community Orientation for Expatriates Program (COPE) this year, the Center has served families from 18 countries.

In addition, the Center has conducted multiple global competency training sessions, including ones for Indianapolis-based organizations wanting more guidance to working with counterparts from other countries.  In 2009, the Center delivered more training sessions than in 2008, reflecting an increased interest for such training among organizations impacted by Indiana’s changing international demographics.

“Our IVLP visits increase Indiana’s visibility throughout the world by introducing emerging world leaders to prominent assets of the state,” said Thomas.  “Through IVLP, key community leaders in government, higher education and the arts share their expertise and highlight Indiana institutions on national and international levels.”

Thomas noted, “The Center’s expertise in citizen diplomacy is also reflected in the increased services provided within the community by our Office of Protocol, which enables organizations to more effectively host distinguished visitors from around the world.”