The West Virginia Council of International Programs (WV-CIP), housed within West Virginia Universitys Office of International Programs, is offering a $500 travel grant to an eligible West Virginia social worker or human service professional to participate in a professional exchange program in another country.

CIP is offering to help fund someone from the state who has an interest in going abroad for a professional experience,said Linda Yoder, coordinator WV-CIP. The programs are offered by local chapters of the Council of International Fellowship (CIF), a sister organization of WV-CIP.

The new travel grant for West Virginia professionals supports CIP s goal of fostering a genuine two-way exchange of ideas and cultures.

This is our attempt to improve cross-cultural communications,Yoder said,

Typical CIF exchange programs are offered in India, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Sweden and France. Most accept English as the primary language. The exceptions are in Germany, which requires a command of the German language, and France, which requires French language ability. Each countrys exchange program is different and the length is usually four to eight weeks. Each charges a modest administrative fee.

To apply, go to the CIF website:http://www.cipusa.org/cif.asp

Contact the specific country program that interests you by e-mail. Lastly, contact the WV-CIP by email, lky2@mail.wvnet.edu , and submit your request.

The applications will be considered at the monthly WV-CIP board meeting.

Persons who receive the grant are expected to make a report to the WV-CIP on their experience. Questions may be directed to Linda Yoder, WVU Office of International Programs, 304-293-6955, ext. 8.