If you answered Yes, keep up the good work. It's very important.

If you answered No, you still have this great opportunity ahead of you. Just keep reading.....

I am looking for volunteer American host families who are willing to welcome an exchange student to their homes for a semester or a school year.  I was very surprised to learn that we at Contra Costa County are not so welcoming to international exchange students. Do you why? I would appreciate any comments, because I don't.

The students that I work with come from different countries on various scholarship programs that are awarded to outstanding high school students from both developing and developed countries. They are usually involved with community service programs, volunteering, hobbies and are leaders in their communities and schools. The advantage of having a exchange student is that you learn a new language and culture, become more understanding and tolarant to other cultures, make friends for life and most importantly change their view about America that is viewed wrongly by the media in their home countries. Guess what, you can also go and visit them.

If you are interested in hosting or know anybody who is, please check our website www.ciee.org or email me at nisso.rahmonova@gmail.com

Thank you for your posts and comments in advance.