FIUTS Statement on the Federal Funding Freeze

It has been a difficult week for FIUTS—and for many other small nonprofits across the nation. Recently, a federal spending freeze put millions of dollars in funding agreements on hold. While some of those restrictions have been lifted, at least temporarily, the uncertainty they created remains, leaving organizations like FIUTS in a precarious position.

FIUTS depends on federal funding through partnerships with organizations that administer U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. These programs bring young leaders from around the world to Seattle, where they develop skills, build relationships, and connect with our community. This funding makes up more than half of our annual budget, supporting not only our programs but also the local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses we visit with our groups. When this funding is threatened, so are all the opportunities it creates—for local students, for our host community, and for the many partners and individuals who have the opportunity to connect with these future global leaders.

At a time when the world needs more connection, not less, the U.S. must follow through on its commitments. These decisions don’t just affect organizations—they impact real people, both here and around the world. The young leaders we host bring new ideas and fresh energy to the Seattle area, strengthening global understanding and collaboration. Then they return to their countries with a deeper understanding of our country and ties to our region that last a lifetime. If these programs disappear, so do those opportunities—for them and for us.

This is why we need your help. If you believe in the power of international exchange, please:
Contact your representatives and tell them that U.S. commitments to small nonprofits and to educational exchange must be honored.
Attend a FIUTS event and engage with these inspiring young leaders.
Host a student in your home for a short-term homestay
Make a gift to FIUTS to sustain our work during this challenging time.

Want to learn more about how exchange programs benefit our country? The Alliance for International Exchange offers resources on their website to help people understand the impact of exchanges on our security, our economy, and our communities.

Washington State may be far from Washington, D.C., but FIUTS is on the front lines of global connection. Thank you for being part of our community—and for standing with us as we keep moving forward.