ASSE International Student Exchange Programs, in cooperation with community high schools, is looking for local families to host boys and girls ages 15–18 for the next academic year. Students from all over the world – places like Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan and Ukraine, to name a few – have already received scholarships to study in the USA.

"All they need now is you," officials said. "Loving and caring host families are the cornerstone of our program and vital to its mission of bridging the gap between people, cultures and nations. During this temporary period of social distancing, more than ever we need to look forward to and celebrate opportunities to bring humanity back together. By generously opening your home to a young person from overseas, you can help us continue our global commitment to increasing international peace and understanding."

ASSE is designated and supervised by the U.S. Department of State. Preparations are underway for the 2020-21 program year and the arrival of new future leaders this Fall.

"ASSE students come with an enthusiasm to practice their English and experience American culture -- food, sports, shopping and more," officials said. "They also love to share their own culture with their host families – who welcome them not as a guests, but as family members – giving both the students and families a rich cultural experience."

ASSE students have pocket money for personal expenses, along with health, accident and liability insurance. ASSE students are selected for participation based on academics and good citizenship. Host families can choose their students from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries and personal interests.

"ASSE’s top concern is the health of our host families, host communities and exchange students. Even as the U.S. and many other countries continue to live under temporary stay-at-home orders, we would like to reassure you that these students will not travel unless it is considered safe to do so by the U.S. and foreign governmental agencies entrusted with public health and safety," officials said.

To become a host family, or to find out how to become involved with ASSE in your community, call Pamela at 205-577-9323 or the ASSE Southern Regional Office at 1-800-473-0696, or go to www.host.asse.com to begin your host family application.

"There are many students to choose from, so begin the process of welcoming your new son or daughter into your family today," officials said.