INDIANAPOLIS — The Green family, from Indianapolis, has been hosting Ayusa student Israr, who is from Pakistan, since the fall and have enjoyed learning about a new culture. Host mom Julie shares: “Having Israr here has been really fun — the more the merrier — especially for my similarly aged son. It has been extremely interesting to learn all about a completely different culture and also challenging to have discussions that have honestly caused me to look at own biases and patterns,” she continued. “It has been surprising at times when there is an unexpected realization about one another’s culture. It ’s also been exciting to introduce him to new and very American experiences.”
Ayusa works with diverse families who are interested in hosting an international student of high school age. Families without children, empty nesters, military families, retirees, and single people are all welcome. Ayusa families come from all over the country and reside in rural, suburban and urban communities.
Host families who volunteer provide their exchange student with three meals a day and a bedroom (private or shared). Each host family, student, and local high school is supported by a professionally trained Ayusa representative throughout the year.
Ayusa’s exchange students are 15-18 years old and come from countries around the world. Students are fully insured, bring their own spending money, and are proficient in English.
Families interested in hosting an exchange student can request additional information by visiting www.ayusa.org or calling 1-888-552-9872.