American families have an opportunity to open their homes to international students during the 2026–27 school year through the Face the World Foundation.
The organization is accepting host-family applications as students prepare to study in the United States, experience American culture and become part of a local household. Hosting is designed to create a meaningful cultural exchange that allows families and students to learn from one another while building relationships that may continue long after the school year ends.
Students currently awaiting host-family placement include Jan Rudolf, 16, of Germany; Alec, 15, of Thailand; Maxima, 16, of Germany; and Saskia, 16, of Germany.
Host families can take many forms and do not need previous exchange-program experience. Applicants must be at least 25 years old, pass a background check and provide the student with a bed, meals while at home, reasonable transportation, guidance and a supportive family environment.
Participating students are carefully screened before placement. They arrive with their own spending money and medical insurance and are prepared to attend school, adjust to family routines and participate in everyday American life.
Hosting an international student offers families a way to experience another culture without leaving home. Daily conversations, shared meals, school activities and community events can introduce new traditions and perspectives while giving the visiting student a safe and welcoming place to live.
The experience can also have a lasting effect on young people who are studying far from their families. A stable host household can help a student develop confidence, improve communication skills and better understand life in the United States.
Families interested in hosting or learning more may contact local community representative Peggy Haverly at 903-286-0440 or pjhaverly@gmail.com. Additional information is available through the Face the World Foundation at facetheworld.org, info@facetheworld.org or 707-559-5800.
