A non-profit organization connecting locals with visitors.
To appreciate Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S., it is best to see it through the eyes of a local. Often called “the most diverse city in America” Houston can seem complex and maybe overwhelming at first. Spending time with someone who lives in Houston helps a visitor understand the size and appreciate the complexities that create this special place.
Houston Greeters was founded in 2005 and began conducting greets in 2006. The initial Greeter corps was only 20 people, speaking 4 languages.
Susan Borches founded the organization and attended the first Greeter “get together” in New York City, meeting Big Apple Greeter and its Founder, Lynn Brooks. Susan also attended the second meeting in Chicago (Chicago Greeters) and the next year in Toronto where a decision was made to name the growing organization “Global Greeter Network”. And now there are 130+ cities similarly greeting visitors around the world!
The Houston organization is a non-profit, non-governmental organization (NGO), unaffiliated with any city governing body.
The organization’s mission has not changed over the years. Its intent is quite simply to provide a way for visitors, or even long-time residents, to share a couple hours with a local resident to see something of interest to them both. The process seems to be working as hundreds of visitors have been served in this way, and evaluations remain strong!
We hope you too, will enjoy the experience! If you have any ideas or suggestions of any kind, we’d love to hear from you!