Bloomington Worldwide Friendship, Inc.

The Friends Matching Program connects international students with interested individuals or families in Bloomington and nearby communities to build friendships and cultural awareness. BWF’s Friends Program matches Indiana University’s international students, professors and scholars with interested families and individuals in Bloomington and nearby communities.

International visitors do not live with their matched friends. Instead, the friends invite international visitors into their homes for a meal, or include them in a picnic, trip, or other activity. Hosts strive to give their guests a taste of authentic Midwestern life. International visitors should experience what day to day activities are like in the life of a typical American family.

International visitors do not pay a membership fee. If a family wants to attend a movie such as a movie or basketball game, international visitors should expect to pay. (Families will sometimes choose to pay for their international visitors, though.)

Families and international students usually meet at least three times a semester for activities. These activities can range from something as simple as a cup of coffee to a larger activity such as attending a concert or sporting event. International visitors should get a taste of authentic American culture.These relationships frequently last beyond the time international visitors spend in Bloomington.

International visitors can sign up for the Friends Matching Program at BWF’s table during International Student Orientation or by E-mailing us. Community members interested in hosting an international visitor should contact us as well.