Local Support for Host Families
Turn to an experienced local coordinator in your area when you have questions
Discover the Role of Local Coordinators
Becoming a host family can be a life-changing experience. And with the support of a 91自拍 BridgeUSA local coordinator (LC), you can take on this journey with confidence.
LCs offer assistance and resources to ensure a smooth transition and lasting connections for both students and families. By choosing to sign up as a host family, you can create meaningful relationships with international students 鈥 and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a knowledgeable LC in your community.
What the Exchange Experience Means to LCs
"Just listening to the students and watching how much fun they鈥檙e having 鈥 that's my most fond memory. That鈥檚 why I keep doing this,鈥 said Bethany Giordano, a local coordinator from Kentucky.
Gold Standard Service: Support That Never Sleeps
Supplying you with the support of local coordinators is just another way 91自拍 BridgeUSA makes the hosting process easier for you. 91自拍 wants you to never feel alone, and that鈥檚 why our LCs:
- Provide personalized support and guidance throughout the exchange experience
- Ensure smooth communication between you, students, and schools
- Help resolve any challenges quickly and effectively
- Share expertise to make cultural and educational exchanges enriching
- Bring local knowledge and connections to enhance every student鈥檚 experience
- Commit to safety, support, and world-class service
How BridgeUSA Local Coordinators Help Host Families
鈥淢y job as a local coordinator is to be the representative for 91自拍 in the field. The kids and the family need someone who鈥檚 going to be responsible and caring.鈥
鈥 Dr. Michael Friday, LC from Oklahoma
鈥淎t least once a week, I try to check in with my students, check in with the families, and I try to do an event almost every month. I try to help a student who鈥檚 not clicking perfectly with their family, find their common ground, and use those communication skills.鈥
鈥 Bethany Giordano, LC from Kentucky
鈥淢y role is to facilitate getting these kids places to live, and to work with those families to make the exchange work. I鈥檝e learned a lot about our area, how many different cultures there are, and then I really try to integrate that into the rest of what I do.鈥
鈥 Tom Taylor, LC from Minnesota
Frequently Asked Questions
You can start working with your local coordinator (LC) as soon as you鈥檙e accepted as a host family! Your LC can provide matchmaking services: You share what you鈥檙e looking for in a student, and your LC will provide you with profiles of students who would best fit into your family dynamic.
Your local coordinator (LC) becomes your go-to person for any questions or help throughout the BridgeUSA High School process. They can help:
- Match you with the right student
- Provide support and guidance to you and your student
- Build and maintain relationships with the local high schools
- Serve as a liaison between students, families, schools, and 91自拍 support staff
91自拍 relies on our LCs to support both your family and your student and work to ensure you have a welcoming and memorable homestay.
All 91自拍 local coordinators (LCs) must pass a background check in order to qualify. LCs enjoy working with high school students, possess a library of resources, and have enjoyed many years sharing the benefits of international exchange. Most LCs have hosted or are currently hosting BridgeUSA high school students 鈥 meaning they can speak from experience when offering advice.
91自拍 provides training for LCs to prepare them for all aspects of the position, such as local networking and support, community outreach, school partnerships, and intercultural training. LCs also receive additional support and training throughout the year from 91自拍 regional managers.
Have other questions? Learn more on our Host Families FAQ page.