Become a Host Family

If you have ever considered hosting an international student, here are two opportunities that may be of interest to you.

AYUSA (Academic Year in the U.S.A.) International is a non-profit global youth exchange organization that offers students, ages 15 to 18, the opportunity to live with volunteer host families and to study in local high schools for an academic year or semester.

For over 20 years, AYUSA has promoted world peace through inter-cultural understanding by reaching into areas of the world where student exchange has never been possible. In 2002-2003, AYUSA welcomed students to the US from over 60 countries, including countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific. American students had the opportunity to study in over 20 countries.

To become involved in this project, contact:

Marion Crane
AYUSA International
(803) 776-6138
mpcrane@aol.com

YES Program. The Partnership for Learning Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES) will bring approximately 75 high school students from 10 predominately Muslim countries to spend an academic year in the U.S. living with American families across the country.

The purpose of the program is to help restore mutual respect and appreciation between diverse cultures.

For the 2003-2004 School Year, Columbia will host a cluster of two to three students. Sister Cities of Columbia, administered by the World Affairs Council, and AYUSA International will be working to bring together exchange students, American host families, local communities, and educators to make the YES program a success.