International House Ann Arbor

Increase intentional diversity: provide a learning living community space at affordable rates for over 75 International students and visitors per year at the university of Michigan. In 2023, individuals from 40 different countries were welcomed into the ihaa community, living closely and peacefully with others from very different cultures and spiritual traditions. Unlike other rental communities near the university of Michigan, ihaa offered flexible and short-term lease terms for visiting scholars and exchange students. Ihaa is also home away from home to many fulbright scholars and teachers who encrich the local and university communities culturally and intellectually. Many of our students and scholars are from low income or war-torn countries (including palestine, ukraine and sudan)and our reduced-rate housing defrays the cost of their housing during their exchange pprogram, making it possible for them to come here and share their experiences with american members of the residential community, the city and the university.

Expansion of mission to provide housing to displaced refugees: in 2022, ihaa explanded its core mission to begin housing scholars at risk who have been displaced by conflict in their home countries. In 2023, this project further expanded. We have been housing three families with children and added three more ukrainian scholars. All are unable to return because the front line of the war is in their hometowns. We have also housed displaced women from afghanistan, iran and peru.

Programming to promote peace: ihaa's programming promoted cultural exchange and taught non-violent communication. The non-violent communication training is a new addition to our programming which provides tools for peaceful relationships to our residents. We also offered numerous programs designed to promote a positive image of american culture to International students through field trips and events. Our workshops teach and encourage peaceful interaction and attitudes among people of many nations,especially those where conflict or discord are present.