Unforgettable Experiences for Exchange Students and Host Families
A Conversation Between Molly Wieber and Jacque Genovese
Foreign Links Around the Globe (FLAG) International is a program that was started in 1989 by an exchange student and his host mom. It is dedicated to providing high-quality international exchange experiences that transform the lives of high school students, host families, and communities around the world. I asked Molly Wieber, the FLAGship Managing Director, to talk about the great work FLAG is doing and her efforts to find host families in the Lincoln area.
“Our original reservation was that we don’t have kids of our own. We thought a student may find us boring. But then we realized that we have a lot to offer an exchange student! We were able to identify shared interests and we learned a lot about new sports and activities that we previously had no experience with. We truly enjoyed
our experience and we’re so glad we stepped out of
our comfort zone a little bit and gave it try.”
Where do students come from?
This year, we have over 400 students from 35 countries coming to the U.S. Most students come for a full academic year, while others for a semester (August – December or January – June). The Lincoln school district and surrounding towns are very welcoming and appreciate the cultural diversity exchange students bring to their schools.
How many host families are needed?
We hope for about 10 host families for the Lincoln area. They can have kids or no kids, be retired, or single. We have a huge demographic of empty nesters who tend to host year after year. They enjoy it because it keeps them active and feeling younger.
How do you find host families?
Local coordinators look for people who love kids that age and have an interest in cultures. They find host families from their social circle or people they know in the community.
What are the benefits of being a host family?
When you host, you get to select your student. You open yourself and your loved ones to a new world of culture and unforgettable experiences that become life-long relationships between students and families.
What is the application process?
After a host family submits an application, a background check is done, reference checks are made, and a home visit is scheduled. We are governed by the Department of State. The application process is simple and can be done rather quickly.
FLAG is still seeking host families for this school year. If you’re considering hosting, now is the time to reach out. Learn more at flag-intl.org, or contact Molly Wieber, (269) 365-3488 or mwieber@flag-intl.org.