Our Story








The Columbia Council for Internationals (CCFI) has been welcoming international visitors and students to Columbia, South Carolina since 1965.
We’re devoted to promoting global understanding and international relationships by connecting international students and visitors with Midlands American families.
We’re an all-volunteer, non-partisan, secular, non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status, operating by committee structure.
Our Mission
The Columbia Council for Internationals (CCFI) strengthens collaboration and understanding of Internationals and the Midlands of South Carolina through professional, educational, and cultural programs.
Our Goals
Create a comfortable environment in which international visitors can have the broadest possible educational experience.
Gain new perspectives by the exchange of ideas with people of other cultures for mutual enrichment and understanding.
Give the international visitor every opportunity to observe and participate in the activities of the community.