Rochester Global Connections (RGC) is a non-profit organization that brings Rochesterians together with international university students and visitors to create friendships, promote international understanding, and enhance the quality of life for our participants and the community.

Friendship Volunteers meet with a local international university student from either UR or RIT several times a year for social activities, whether it’s a meal together, a street festival, a walk in nature or something else of mutual interest.

Friendship Volunteers come in all varieties, from families wanting to provide their children with exposure to other cultures to empty nesters and singles who love Rochester and would like to develop friendships with people from other countries. The minimum commitment is one year but many friendships endure a lifetime.

To learn more about RGC, visit http://www.rochesterglobalconnections.org. Contact RGC Executive Director Amy LaGambino at ExecDir@RochesterGlobalConnections.org or (585) 275-8779 for more information about the Friendship Volunteer program and other RGC initiatives.

Volunteers must first become RGC members in order to participate. The suggested annual contribution is $35. Click here to join RGC. RGC will then contact you about becoming a Friendship Volunteer.

The University of Rochester has a number of membership fee waivers to encourage employee participation, especially those on a tight budget. Those interested should first contact Todd St. Vrain, Manager for International Initiatives at todd.stvrain@rochester.edu or (585) 275 – 4821 before applying for RGC membership and to the Friendship Volunteer program.

Becoming a Friendship Volunteer is a great way for UR employees and our international students to truly know and understand each other. A world of sharing, laughter, discovery and special memories await!