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Mission
Our main purpose is to provide a network of friends and facilitate the integration of newcomers in Bethesda, Rockville, MD and the Washington DC Metropolitan Area.
History
Since the mid eighties, IWG has been a volunteer based initiative to promote social networking and cultural exchange for international women and their families. Originally affiliated with the Volunteer Services Program of the Fogarty International, IWG played a crucial role in helping those arriving from abroad with orientation through its monthly Bulletin, "Welcome Packages", monthly and annual social events, in addition to facilitating various activities, playgroups and workshops for women and children. With the termination of the Volunteer Services Program in July 1993, IWG became affiliated with the National Health Institute (NIH)/NOAA Recreational and Welfare Association.
Over the past 10 years, IWG has evolved from its small subgroup status to a lively community with over 100 members. Due to the increase in its size and the range of activities it accommodates, the community has been administered by a group of members under the leadership of the IWG President i.e. the Head Coordinator, altogether forming the "Board". Since the term was introduced in the March 2003 Bulletin for the first time, the Board structure has reflected the dynamic nature of the community in terms of its administrative functions and responsibilities. The current breakdown of these functions and responsibilities is as follows:
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President
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Secretary
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Treasurer
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Volunteers & Members Coordinator
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Communication & Systems
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Social Events and Family Parties Coordinator
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Art & Movement and New Member Coordinators
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Morning Coffee and New Member Coordinators
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NIH Coordinator
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Board members meet at the beginning of every month to discuss the issues concerning the IWG community activities, reviewing fundraising opportunities, planning social events, and occasionally addressing specific issues raised by board members. A brief summary of the discussed issues and planned actions are published in the Bulletin and the complete minutes are persisted as a shared IWG document following their approval.
In addition to the Board, IWG is supported by a large group of volunteers who organize various activities and social events, or are in charge of welcoming the new comers. The organization structure and activities schedule are very flexible to accommodate new activities. As an IWG member and volunteer, if you have ideas, suggestions regarding new activities, the board will be happy to assist you in jumpstarting your projects by offering expert advice, financial resources and most importantly volunteer enthusiasm.
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