Food Brings Us Together

 

At the Iowa City Foreign Relations Council (ICFRC), we know that a shared meal can spark meaningful conversations and lasting connections. For over 40 years, we’ve hosted internationally focused educational programs—often over lunch—that bring community members together to learn and talk about global issues that impact our lives right here in Iowa.

 

Our Programs

We host 20 events each year around Iowa City, from the Iowa City Public Library to the Old Capitol, to University spaces, movie theaters, and senior and community centers, with in-person audiences of 50–120, and many more engaging online or through City Channel 4 broadcasts. Our reach extends to thousands in the Iowa City area, including students, professionals, educators, and international visitors.

 

Each event highlights expert speakers on topics like immigration, foreign policy, diplomacy, culture, global health, climate change - not shying away from tough conversations at times when others do.

 

A Delicious Way to Support Community Dialogue

We would love to explore a partnership opportunity with your restaurant or business—whether in-kind or at-cost—for one event per year (or more, if it makes sense for you). Food partners play a valued role in our gatherings and receive meaningful recognition throughout our outreach.

 

Partner Benefits Include:

• Public Recognition at the event and in our spoken introductions

• Visibility across email promotions, printed materials, social media, and community poster distribution

• Connection with globally minded audiences and civic leaders

• Collaboration that fits your capacity and goals

 

Why ICFRC?

We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization fostering lifelong global learning in Iowa. Our values — diversity, community, impact, partnerships, and visibility — guide everything we do.

 

Let’s Talk!

If you're interested in exploring a one-time or recurring partnership, reach out to Executive Director Peter Gerlach at peter@icfrc.org or 319-600-2588

 

Together, we can nourish curiosity, connection, and community.