Become a Volunteer Host Family

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Here is some general information needed to apply to be a host family:

• Host family will complete a host family application (HFA) online
• Members of the family 18 years or older must complete a criminal background check (found on page 3 of the online application)
• Host family provides 3 personal references (space found on page 3 of the online application)
• Local coordinator will conduct a host family interview (HFI) prior to student being placed with a family
• Field Manager will conduct host family orientation (HFO) prior to student moving into home

Below you’ll find information about what it means to be a host family, and what is expected of our students and coordinators.

Host family responsibilities:

• Ensure a safe and nurturing home environment for the student
• Provide students with a room (can be shared with a host sibling of similar age and same gender), his/her own bed, adequate storage, 3 meals per day, and transportation for extracurricular activities
• Give love and support to the student
• Explore cultural differences and similarities
• You do NOT have to have high school kids of your own- all types of families are accepted!!

Our students:

• Bring their own spending money, health insurance & liability insurance
• Have English skills (reading, writing, speaking)
• Are highly screened for suitability for the program (Dept. of State issues their educational visas)
• Are not guests, they are treated as a member of your family
• Are excited to meet their American family!

Our Local Coordinators:

• Have received extensive training
• Meet with the students every month face to face
• Often have international or hosting experience
• Provide ongoing support to the host family