From the hosts
Why do people enjoy hosting internationals in their home?
A few hosts share their thoughts. . .
“We were surprised and delighted at how much our lives were enriched by hosting a youth from Indonesia. These young people taught us so much about their culture and their religion, but most important, they inspired us with their courage and determination to make a difference in their world.” Allen and Judith Larson, Primary and Secondary School Teachers
“Truly, connecting with people from another country is one of the most unique experiences to have-we learn so much from each other, and how much we are alike. I think that as the world becomes smaller and our global community becomes so interconnected, it is important to know and understand and appreciate other cultures.” Claudia Albert, former Vice President, Trust Department, First Community Bank
“It’s always been a wonderful experience, for myself and my family: we always receive more from the program than we actually put into it! It makes us appreciate what we do have, when we talk to folks and find out their situations. Things which we take for granted are luxuries to them. For instance, we just don’t appreciate the freedom we have just to move around our country, until we talk to somebody who lives on the ‘other side of the line.’” Tony Ware, Branch Manager, National Bank of Commerce
“The total experience has been fantastic: I think all of our employees have enjoyed meeting the different folks who have been here. Just getting to know who they are promotes an international brotherhood, more than anything else.
We form such relationships and friendships-it’s been unbelievable! We still correspond back and forth with even the first Russian guest that we had, and that was years ago! Every one of them has been different, and every one of them has been special to us in some way. They’re so appreciative of being here, and of everything that they get to do, they just endear themselves into our hearts! Ed Reilley, President, RNE Corporation