University of Maryland Extension

Maryland 4-H International Programs

 

         

    Travel                             Host                              Resources

             

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller                                                                                Maryland 4-H has the unique opportunity to offer new and exciting programs to youth and families.  Through this intercultural program, we are growing leaders, developing global perspectives, and engaging communities.                                                                               In offering outbound opportunities such as a one month homestay in Japan and a two week service learning program in Tanzania (located in East Africa), Maryland 4-H is elevating the way in which leaders are developed. The inbound opportunities for families to host delegates from Japan for a one month homestay allows you to experience a new country without leaving this one.


        

SUMMER 2019 AT A GLANCE- See our Hosting page for application and program details

Japan    
  • CHECK BACK SOON!
Hosting Requirements:
  • The Host Sibling should be within three years of the Delegates age, and be the same gender
  • Everyone 18+ in the household must pass a background check
  • You do NOT have to be in 4-H to host!
  • Must have own permanent bed for them to sleep on, and preferred to share a room with same gender.
  • Go to this website to fill out an online application: http://www.states4hexchange.org/
  • If you host for one month you receive $100 off a States’ 4-H International Exchange trip (Up to $300), If you host for the school year you receive $1000 off the cost of a trip. School year hosting opportunities are available.
Top Five Truths to Know About Hosting:

1.)    That hiking trail a couple miles from home that you’re always meaning to take? That park or local museum you haven’t visited in a while? That tennis racket that never seems to make it onto the court? Bringing a guest to your home doesn’t mean making huge or expensive trips, but it’s really about exploring and having you rediscover your local community as a family!

2.)    Communication will be a challenge that both you and your delegate will meet. Practicing as a family before your delegate arrives was the number one piece of advice from past host families, and we have resources for you. J

3.)    You can spend a lot of money. But you can also not spend a lot of money. See point number one and be advised that one of the favorite things our delegates did was play a pick-up game of basketball, or go to the County fair, or go to the dump (I can’t make this up!). The things you and your family do every day is perfect. Which leads me to…

4.)    You will stress yourself out if you try to be the entertainer. Treat them exactly as you would your own children. Down time, quiet time, recharge time- all very ok and necessary!

5.)    They are eager to learn English, to make you happy, and to visit America, but saying goodbye is tough, and that’s a pretty special thing.

Learn more about what 4-H is doing in Africa!

For more information contact Dr. Jeff Howard at jwhoward@umd.edu or 301-314-9070.

 

Section: 
4-H
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