NCIV is a national network of program agencies and 93 community-based organizations. These nonprofit groups design and implement professional programs and provide cultural activities and home hospitality opportunities for foreign leaders, specialists, and international scholars.

Citizen Diplomacy is the idea that the individual citizen has the right — even the responsibility — to help shape U.S. foreign relations "one handshake at a time."

By opening their homes, offices, and schools to foreign leaders participating in the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program and other exchanges, NCIV member citizen diplomats foster international understanding and cooperation, constructive economic connections, and peaceful interaction.