“When my wife and I hosted a girl from Hong Kong a few years ago, we had some expectations about the relationship that we would build with our new daughter. After all, my parents hosted in the 1960’s and I am still in touch with my Norwegian sister. But we didn’t expect the relationship that has developed with our daughter’s natural family.”
Alan Russell, Host Brother and Father 2004
“Being a host family is so enriching. At first, I did not think the experience could be so rewarding, but I am so happy we decided to host an AFS exchange student. Our Thai son has gone back home, but we are still in regular contact. We are even going to visit him this summer!”
Family Versteylen from Belgium, hosting a Thai ‘son’
“Today I consider myself as the richest person in the world, because now I’ve got two families, which I life in and love, and the world has become my home. This extra-lesson at the school-of-life has taught me more than anybody or anything could ever teach me. Everyone should use this unique opportunity to get to know the world better.”
Jane Neugebauer, Germany to Brazil, 2002-2003
“I really enjoyed being placed with four children. Since no one in the family spoke very much English, it was a help to be able to teach games and songs to the children. I was able to observe the wonderful Thai tradition of caring for an elderly parent in the home. The children fed him, bathed him, toileted him and showed incredible respect and love for him. It was particularly satisfying that despite the language barrier we were able to have such a good time and to feel so comfortable with each other.”
Cathie Currin, Visiting Teacher Program, USA to Thailand
“I had a wonderful year and still keep in touch with my American family. After AFS I went back to Ecuador and went to Law school. In 1984 my American parents came to Ecuador for my Law graduation. We had a nice time together and they enjoyed their stay in my country very much. I am most grateful to AFS for that unforgettable year in the U.S. that was so remarkable and I will never forget.”
Maritza Piedrahita, Ecuador to USA, 1977-1978
