Be Hospitable: The Mission of International Friendships

Founded in 1979, International Friendships Inc. (IFI) aims to promote and encourage hospitality towards international students. The organization began when Bruce Erikson, pastor of Little Covenant Baptist Church, envisioned international students at Ohio State University (OSU) experiencing God’s love through openness and friendliness.

Erikson welcomed students into his home, took them grocery shopping and celebrated holidays with them, according to IFI. Additionally, Mabel Bahler, the co-founder, rented a place to house young women within walking distance of Ohio State University.

Today, IFI has locations on 50 campuses, 33 cities and 15 states with multiple resources, including the ISEED Internship and the Student Blog.

Read more