How Local Coordinators are Changing the World

Everyone wants their life to count for something. But can one person really make a difference?

The answer is yes.  Absolutely. We see it happen every day.

Ordinary people make an extraordinary impact in their communities and around the world by working with foreign exchange students as a local coordinator.

The Local Coordinator. It’s such a simple title for people who work so hard and do so much. And love every minute of it. (Well, almost every minute—every job has its moments…)

Whether you’re considering joining the cause, or are just curious about how it all works, keep reading.

This position has been one of the best I’ve ever had. This job has allowed me to do things I never thought I would be able to do. I’ve traveled. I’ve met some great people. I’ve guided some great kids and helped them grow into the future problem solvers they’re destined to become.

Joseph Olivier, Roseville, Michigan (4 years)

What does a Local Coordinator do?

The Local Coordinator (LC) is the boots-on-the-ground for exchange students who come from around the world to spend a semester or academic year in the U.S.

Before the student comes, the LC handles the practical details like recruiting and screening a host family and working with the local high school to secure admission for the student.

The LC lays a strong foundation for participants by conducting orientation for both host family and student. (Don’t worry—we provide all the materials and training on how to use them.)

Throughout the experience, the LC is the go-to person for exchange students, host families, and schools when questions or challenges come up.

And LCs plan occasional outings for their students, giving them the chance to spend some time together talking, learning, laughing, and having fun.

I love matching host families with students.  It’s so fun to have an excited host family and help them find their new international son or daughter.  To get to be part of such a life changing experience is just the best!

Terri Maule, Dorr, Michigan (6 years)

Is being a Local Coordinator a paid job or a volunteer position?

Yes.

LCs do get paid, but they don’t get rich. At least not the money kind of rich.

The biggest payoff is the enormous satisfaction of watching an exchange student learn, grow, and mature as they adapt to a new culture and a new family.

Or the warmth of building life-long friendships with teens from around the world.

Or the value of seeing American host families, schools, and communities learn to accept, embrace, and love a foreign kid who’s so very different from them—and yet so very much the same.

Real, authentic change happens in people—and the LC has the thrill of knowing they played a major part in making it happen.

I love that the students text or call me when they get good news. I have had messages about making Homecoming Court, getting a new puppy, or even having a great time with their host family on a weekend get away.  I love that they know that they can come to me to celebrate with them!

Bridgette Branson, Rector, Arkansas (9 months)

What’s the time commitment of an LC?

It depends.

Most LCs devote a few hours each week to their role, but the time commitment depends largely on how many students they choose to work with.

Some LCs work with one or two students, while others may work with a dozen or more.

There is flexibility to choose the involvement level that works for you.

I love bringing these amazing kids into communities! Its great to see them on the sports teams, at the dances and volunteering. Its like getting to be everyone’s Aunt! I cheer for them and they look to me for guidance and support. 

Gail Knight, Casper, Wyoming (4 years)

What kind of background is needed to be a Local Coordinator?

LCs are at least 25 years old and must pass a criminal background check. Aside from that, they vary greatly.

Our LCs come from all backgrounds and walks of life: from young professionals to retired seniors and everything in between, the one thing LCs have in common is a heart for working with teens.

While cross-cultural experience is helpful, it’s not required. That’s something you can (and will) learn as you go.

I love working with international teens and being part of their experience in Montana. I was an exchange student in college, so I identify with their experience and I want to make sure they are happy, safe, and embracing all the opportunities while they are here. 

Sierra Drake, Bozeman, Montana (10 years)

Are there any other requirements?

LCs must have a computer with internet access and reliable transportation.

Those who are best suited for the job have a love of kids and an interest in countries and cultures.

I love to communicate with kids from overseas because I came years ago to this country myself.

Karina Butenko, Rochester, New York (1 year)

Do you provide training and support?

We sure do! We work hard to make sure our LCs have everything they need to be successful.

This includes online training, live development calls, and a regional supervisor to offer personalized guidance and encouragement.  You’ll have tons of opportunities to learn from experienced staff.

Our marketing department is always creating cool stuff to help promote the program, and our entire staff constantly brainstorms new ways to get the job done.

I love the optimism, the energy, and the newness of discovery that these students bring every day.  The kids radiate so much hope for this world and the future.  I also would not be doing this if it weren't for a
great group of support staff and directors.  They make doing this job so easy and it feels like we are one big fun family.

Bill Steiger, Bessemer, Michigan (2 years)

Tell me about travel incentives.

Ah yes, the travel. If you don’t have a love of travel before becoming an LC, it’s very likely that you will develop one.

All of our local coordinators have the opportunity to attend a domestic training conference each year to meet other LCs, get awesome training, and have some fun!

Reaching placement goals will also earn you a spot on our annual international trip—which this year is to Finland!

I absolutely love connecting families with students and helping them meld two cultures together to become one loving family.  Watching them grow and gain mutual underrating and love for one another is an experience that truly warms the heart.  I always say “they are the missing piece the family didn’t know was missing".

Susan Dutcher, Middleville, Michigan (8 years)

In short, being a Local Coordinator is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. It's a part-time job with long-term impact.  What could be better than that?