Labo Host

Do you enjoy the exposure to different cultures which traveling brings, but can't find the time and money to travel? 
Are you looking for a low-cost project or experience in which the whole family can participate and grow together? 

Ohio 4-H International Programs allow families to gain the benefits of international travel right here at home by hosting a youth or an adult exchangee from one of more than 30 countries.  (Hosting periods vary depending on the program.) 

Being a 4-H international host family is easy, fun, rewarding and educational!  Just welcome the exchangee into your home and treat him or her like one of the family.  The exchangees will want to join in everyday activities, help with chores and otherwise fit in as a brother, sister, son or daughter.  No special activities need to be planned, although most families and visitors enjoy the opportunity to take occasional sightseeing trips to local attractions and landmarks during the visit. 

Ohio 4-H is looking for all types of families to give exchangees as broad a perspective as possible about life in our state.  Urban families, rural families, two-parent or single-parent families, older couples, singles, couples without children, and families with varied religious and ethnic backgrounds all have something to offer visitors from other cultures.   Host families do not have to be previously involved in 4-H or speak a foreign language. 

Applications to host a 4-H Exchangee are available in the International Programs Booklet, published in January.  Please contact your county OSU Extension office for an application or contact the 4-H International Programs Coordinator to be put on the 4-H International mailing list. 

Applications received by  February 28th will receive first preference for age, gender and nationality requests.  However, applications will continue to be accepted until all exchangees are placed.  Submitting the application does not obligate your family in any way, nor does it assure assignment of an exchangee.  
 
Selection is based on the application, references, and how well the exchangee matches your family's preferences and interests. 

Families receive notification of selection and additional hosting information, including biographical information about the exchangee, as soon as possible.  Handbooks are provided by the State 4-H Office and orientations are held in various locations around the state during May and June. 

The host family experience doesn't end when the exchangee returns home.  The friendships last a lifetime!  Some Ohio 4-H families make efforts to visit their exchangee in his/her own country, either through a 4-H Exchange or private travel.  For host families, the world suddenly becomes smaller!