Community Solutions Program (CSP)

Community Solutions Program

Program Type: Professional exchange and practicum opportunity for international professionals

Geographic Scope: Global (fellows from 100+ countries) placed in U.S.-based host organizations

The Community Solutions Program seeks U.S.-based organizations to host CSP Fellows for a three-month professional practicum. Fellows are mid-career experts motivated to contribute to and learn from U.S. organizations working on initiatives that strengthen American communities.

Key Benefits:

• Share organizational expertise with vetted professionals
• Receive direct support from experienced professionals in your field
• Gain new insights from fellows' international experiences
• Strengthen organizational impact with fresh ideas and solutions
• Develop employees' professional skills through mentoring
• Join a global network of 400+ U.S. partners and 700+ global leaders
• Expand international reach through reciprocal exchange grants

Practicum Details:

• Duration: Three months (September 8 – November 26, 2025)
• Time Commitment: 32 hours per week (telework permitted 2 days/week)
• Funding: U.S. Department of State covers travel, housing, insurance, and ongoing program support

Host Organization Requirements:

• Be U.S.-based (public institution, government office, social incubator, business, or non-profit)
• Willing to engage fellow on substantive work for 32 hours per week
• Designate a host collaborator and peer collaborator for fellow's development
• Work on initiatives concerning U.S. communities related to CSP Program Themes

Application Process for Host Organizations

1. Submit Host Interest Form - Organization completes and submits the Host Interest Form
2. Initial Review - IREX team reviews organization's mission and goals to identify potential fellow matches
3. Matching - If potential match identified, IREX provides fellow's information including resume and profile
4. Review - Host organization reviews fellow's background and CSP Host Letter of Agreement
5. Introductory Call - Host conducts short introductory call with matched fellow to discuss goals and professional development opportunities
6. Host Orientation - Organization participates in virtual host orientation course on Canvas covering CSP aspects and preparation resources

Required Materials

• Host Interest Form completion
• Organization mission and goals documentation

Opportunities to Engage

• Host a fellow for 32-hour per week practicum (August-November)
• Share Community Solutions application with networks
• Serve on Selection Committee to review applicants

Contact

Email: csp@irex.org for questions or to set up a meeting