Youth For Understanding is one of the world's oldest, largest, and most respected international exchange programs. Since 1951, YFU offices around the world have exchanged approximately 200,000 students. In one year alone, approximately 4,500 students will participate in our programs worldwide. Through the exchange experience, YFU students gain skills and perspectives necessary to meet the challenges and benefit from the opportunities the fast-changing global community has to offer. The Heartland District covering the Midwest, and Colorado placed 522 students with local Host Families.
YFU USA conducts exchanges with more than 50 countries around the world. Each exchange is coordinated by a worldwide network of national YFU organizations all dedicated to providing the highest quality international educational experience for exchange students and their host families. With nearly 2,500 volunteers in communities across the United States, YFU USA is fully equipped to support every student and host family. Supporting our volunteers are five professionally staffed district offices and our national office in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
Hosting an international exchange student can be an enriching experience for the entire family that will last a lifetime. By opening your home and heart to a student from overseas, your family will gain a new global perspective, many memories, and - quite possibly - a new family member! When you volunteer to host an exchange student, you agree to:
• Welcome your new son or daughter as a member of your family.
• Help your student adapt to your family and to U.S. life and culture.
• Provide a safe and loving home environment including a bed, a place to study, and three meals a day.
• Attend orientation events, read the preparation materials, and maintain regular contact with your local volunteer.
• Understand policies and encourage your student to adhere to those policies.
• Familiarize your student with your community and its resources.
All you need to host an international student is the ability and desire to open your home and heart to a new family member.

To find out more about becoming an American Overseas student, a Host Family or to Volunteer for YFU-USA, the website is www.yfu-usa.org, or call the Heartland District office at 1-866-493-8872.