Youth Exchange Program

Youth Exchange Program

Norfolk Sister Cities provides opportunities for parents and students (rising 10th-12th graders) to host inbound students from our Sister Cities, as well as participate in outbound exchanges. Some sister cities have reciprocal agreements where their students visit the United States one year, and the American students visit their country the next, so outbound exchanges may not be available every year.  These exchanges are organized by Norfolk Sister City Association (NCSA). While some need-based scholarship funds are available, the costs are the responsibility of the participants including any costs not covered by awarded scholarship funds. Please note that priority for outbound exchanges is usually given to students that host during a reciprocal year.

Benefits:

  1. Cultivate cross-cultural understanding – Gain invaluable insight into another way of life while sharing the richness of your own traditions and community.
  2. Foster international friendships – Develop lasting relationships that transcend borders, creating connections that may inspire future travel and global engagement.
  3. Become a young global citizen by fostering understanding, friendship, cultural exchange and cooperation; and enrich your household by introducing your family to new perspectives, customs, and languages in a meaningful and immersive way.

Costs (German and France exchange programs):

  1. Hosting an inbound youth: Provide a bed, meals, and welcoming heart. Group activities and field trips are paid for by the program. Neither French nor German language skills are required.
  2. Outbound youth:
    • * Airfare not included
    • * Partial need-based scholarships are available. These funds are available by grants, generous donations of our patrons, income from our Annual International Luncheon Silent Auction, and other fundraisers. The goal of Norfolk Sister Cities is to make certain that all qualified students are able to participate regardless of financial ability. Scholarships are awarded to students participating in exchange programs sponsored by Norfolk Sister City Association and have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, show promise of continued excellence, and have financial need.

Upcoming student exchanges:

  1. Inbound students from Toulon, France July 3-17, 2027 and Wilhelmshaven, Germany July 10-31, 2027. We are seeking host families.
  2. Outbound youth exchanges to Toulon, France and Wilhelmshaven, Germany: July 2028.

Application process for all student exchanges:

  1. The following forms must be completed:
    • * Youth Exchange Program Application (completed by Student): Click here.
    • * Parent/Guardian information form (completed by Parent/Guardian): Click here.
    • * Recommendation form (2 recommendations needed: Teacher & non-relative): Click here.
    • * For INBOUND student exchanges only (Toulon, France July 3-17, 2027 and Wilhelmshaven, Germany July 10-31, 2027): Host Family Application form (completed by Parent/Guardian): Click here.
  2. The student and parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must attend an in-person informational group session at which students will meet individually with committee leaders for a brief interview.
  3. Background checks and home inspections (physical and safety checks) will be completed for potential host families.

Once a student is approved to participate:

  1. The student and Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must attend an additional 1-2 planning and learning sessions.
  2. Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and student must attend a scheduled virtual meeting with the German/French family.
  3. Additional forms must be completed for OUTBOUND student exchanges only in 2028:

For more information:

  1. Toulon, France exchange, please contact Committee Chair, Carie Hatfield.
  2. Wilhelmshaven, Germany exchange, please contact Committee member, Allyn Boney.
  3. INBOUND student exchanges: Please read Suggestions for Host Families. Not all suggestions will apply, but it may be helpful.
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