Our Summer Inbound programs bring youth to the U.S. each summer to stay with a host family for 4 weeks. Based on a complete cultural immersion model, youth are matched with a volunteer American family who wants to share their life with an international visitor!
Program Overview
Visiting youth travel in groups and are accompanied by an adult chaperone who stays in the same state for the duration of the program. Host families will have the opportunity to participate in welcome orientations and departure events that are organized by the 4-H Extension office in each state.
States’ 4-H currently offers several different hosting opportunities for interested families. Our Japan Program is our largest and is always in need of families. Please note that space may be limited in our other programs. Contact your State Coordinator for more details about each program and its availability in your state. Questions? Email IB@states4h.org
Short-Term Summer Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
To host a youth delegate, you must have a child living in your home who is the same gender and approximate age as the youth that you host. This person is the “host sibling” and is matched with a delegate based on shared interests.
Between the ages of 12-18, depending on the program.
Yes! We also need hosts for adult chaperones.
Summer Inbound program countries have included Argentina, Costa Rica, Japan, Korea, Norway and Taiwan, though not every program is offered every year.
Delegates’ English skills vary based on country of origin. All delegates have studied English in school, but their abilities will likely be limited. Part of the joy of hosting is learning new ways to communicate!
That you will welcome the visitor into your home as a member of the family, including him or her in your daily life for the exchange period. Delegates are selected to participate based on their flexibility, adaptability, and maturity. They don’t expect to be entertained every minute, just to participate in life alongside your family and learn about American culture. Host families provide the delegate with a bed and all meals for the duration of the program.
Opening your home to a new family member is a rich and rewarding experience! You will make a new friend and learn about another culture. Many families report that, through hosting, they grow closer as a family as they participate in fun activities together and practice more intentional communication.
Yes! All families are welcome to apply to host whether you’ve been involved in 4-H or not.
Questions?
Experience the joy of cultural exchange by hosting an international student who will become part of your family this summer and begin a rewarding journey of friendship, learning, and global connection.