Benefits for Host Families
Real Stories
"When one of the boys we hosted from the Netherlands turned 30, he called us and told us he was getting married. He wanted his American family to come for the wedding. It was so touching. At the wedding, there was his biological mom and dad, and then his American mom, dad and host brother. It was so overwhelmingly wonderful."
Cathy
Getting involved in international exchange is rewarding for your whole family. Below are just some of the benefits of hosting an exchange student with EF Foundation.
Create a Volunteer Family
Families of all shapes and sizes benefit immensely from doing good together. This is especially true when you volunteer to be an EF Foundation host family. Parents experience the joy of sharing in another child’s development. Children of all ages benefit from bonding with a student from another country. And by sharing a desire to understand other cultures and make an impact, your family will grow together.
Live Life to the Fullest
Families with grown children or without kids of their own love hosting too. Having an exchange student in your local high school provides a great way to stay involved with your community. Many people also find they start living life to the fullest with a new son or daughter to share experiences with.
Share Your Australian Pride
When you host, you play a direct role in promoting the values of Australia. Living with your family is the best way for students from around the world to become immersed in Australian democracy, media and debate. When the young man or woman you host goes on to university and a career, the lessons they’ve learned in Australia will help to shape their decisions for a lifetime.
Learn More About the World
Hosting is an excellent way to learn about the world without leaving home. Parents and children alike can learn a new language, get personal insight into the world beyond their backyards, and even become excellent international cooks! Living with a student from another culture is an education in itself, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
Have Fun
Host families and exchange students laugh. A lot. Whether giggling over the mispronunciation of words or sharing students’ excitement about new friends, host families have a tremendous amount of fun.
Change the World
It sounds ambitious, but it’s true: when you host an EF Foundation exchange student, you gain the power to change the world, one student at a time.