Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Council of International Program (CIP) Chicago?

In 1956, Dr. Henry Ollendorff brought 26 Germans for youth leadership training as a way to reconnect the US to post-war Germany.
Very satisfied with the program, he recommended to include social workers and youth leaders and expand to other countries.

A year later in 1957, Fifty-one social workers and youth leaders from eight (08) countries participated. And in 1958, Chicago joined with participants from 10 countries.

Due to the rapid growth, CIP USA was formed in 1965 to serve as an umbrella organization for affiliates throughout the country.
As a result, the program expanded to include corporations, small businesses, nonprofits and government agencies.

To date, more than 15,000 professionals from over 147 countries have come, shared their knowledge, experience and strengths and took back home enhanced knowledge, a taste of the American way of life, work and values.

What are the current services of CIP Chicago?

The Council of International Program Chicago offer many services such as:

  • Arranges internships and work-based training for international professionals
  • Organizes short-term professional development programs for groups of 5-15 professionals, either funding by the government (Congressional Office for International Leadership) or by participating individuals
  • Works with Discovery Learning and organizes international cultural and study visits.

What is the Legal Status of CIP Chicago?

A nonprofit with the 501 (c) 3 status.  Donations made to CIP Chicago may be tax exempt.

Who is eligible for an internship?

Students enrolled in a college or university outside U.S. or those who graduated within the last 12 months

Who is eligible for work-based training?

Individuals with a bachelor’s degree and minimum 2 years of experience

What services are available to businesses?

CIP Chicago helps businesses identify and recruit well-qualified and talented professionals or interns for work-based training or internship in the U.S.

Businesses may bring professionals from any country, including where they currently operate or where they explore business opportunities.

What services are available to Nonprofits??

CIP Chicago helps nonprofits the same way as businesses. Nonprofits may also bring professionals from any country, including countries and cultures where the communities and neighborhoods where the nonprofits operate may have cultural or historic roots.

What services are available to Government institutions?

CIP Chicago helps government institutions identify and recruit well-qualified talent just like businesses and nonprofits.

What is the application process for a professional or an intern??

To apply at CIP Chicago, please follow the steps below:

  • Firstly, the applicant sends a resume (preferably U.S. style)
  • Secondly, CIP Chicago will arrange an interview with the agency that has an opening for work-based training or internship.
  • At the end, if the applicant is found qualified, he/she will be guided to complete an application form and submit other required documents, such as proof of education, references etc.

Does a business or nonprofit have to pay any fee?

CIP Chicago requests the hosting institution to make a monthly contribution in order to cover the cost of housing, food, insurance, local travel, and overhead expenses. This could vary from $2000 to $2500 a month, depending on the location. If the hosting institution has accommodation services available, the stipend would be adjusted accordingly.

Why be a host family?

  1. Bring a New Culture Into Your Home
    Experience another culture, that you may not experience otherwise, from the comfort of your own home
  2. Be a Support System for Your Professional
    Welcome an individual to America by being a local expert for them and introducing them to American culture with kindness and support as they adapt to a new environment
  3. Grow Your Family
    Accept a new member into your family and make global connections and memories that will last a lifetime
  4. Open Your Mind
    With hosting, you are given the opportunity to understand and appreciate a new way of life or way of thinking