World Affairs Council Of Orange County   

We are a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization dedicated to engaging our community in what is happening beyond our borders, how it affects us, and how all that is local is also global. We are independently and locally led, operated, and funded. However, we are part of a network of over 90 councils across the country, from Honolulu to Boston, and a part of the World Affairs Councils of America, a national office based in Washington, DC, whose mission is to support and connect us in our work.

We primarily do this work through our programming, which includes intimate and elegant dinners for premium members, black tie galas with internationally known speakers, casual and accessible events for young professionals and students, fun socials celebrating cultures, “Lunch and Learn” panels on current affairs, quiz nights, webinars, receptions, screenings, and picnics. What they all have in common: the opportunity to learn from the experts, to ask questions and get answers, and to be with like-minded individuals who agree our biggest enemy is not each other, but apathy. We host conversations, not platforms.

We on the council approach multifaceted issues by presenting excellent and renowned speakers, including experienced diplomats and ambassadors, former heads of state, foreign ministers, high-level government officials, prominent journalists and writers, and top military and intelligence officials.

Many members have lived, worked, studied, or served abroad, study international affairs, conduct international business, or simply appreciate the importance of understanding world affairs. The council has widespread support throughout the local community, including among corporate, public, and academic sectors. Membership fees help to sustain our operations expenses so we can keep programming accessible to our community

The Council's Young Professional and Collegiate Network and Academic World Quest Competition allow high school and university students—our future leaders—to attend events, become engaged, and be mentored towards global careers, along with the opportunity to meet and speak with guest speakers.