The International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) is an association of national, regional and local organizations working to strengthen communities around the world. Its mission is to build an inclusive global community by empowering, inspiring and connecting people who are working locally for social justice.  IFS members include multi-purpose, community-based organizations all over the globe, from North America and Europe to South America and Asia. The organization has a long and active history as a network and as promoter of the Settlement House Movement since it was founded in 1926 in Europe.

The purpose of IFS is to facilitate networking, to encourage the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices, and to influence social policies on global levels. The organization achieves these goals by:

• Promoting the communication of best practices and idea-sharing among member organizations through electronic newsletters, a dynamic website, blogs, bulletin boards and online forums.
• Organizing international conferences, training and exchanges that encourage networking opportunities. IFS partners with member organizations to present a bi-annual international seminar and an international conference every four years. These meetings provide opportunities for members to network, share best practices and learn about other cultures.
• IFS promotes youth exchanges
• Representing members' interests and concerns through the Federation’s official consultative status within international policy development bodies such as the United Nations system and the Council of Europe. IFS maintains a presence at the United Nations and the Council of Europe through IFS board members, and engaging in collaborative partnerships with the International Council of Social Work and the International Association for Community Development.

These activities facilitate the advancement and preservation of the ideals of the Settlement House Movement throughout the world.