Exchange
Program
Exchange
Our program takes place over a two-year period. Student members are referred to as “delegates”.
Typically the first year delegates will host an American guest. The second year, they travel to one of 4 participating cities in the United States where they will be accommodated in host families.
The program takes place between mid-July and beginning of August depending on the scheduling due to the timing of the respective county’s/state’s summer holidays. The exchanges between countries (referred to as individual chapters) usually last for 19 days.
Fundraising is instrumental in offsetting these costs for hosting and travelling. Thoughout the school year the sudents participate in events to raise money (garage sales, car wash, baked good sales, VINTED, window cleaning etc…)
Taking part in Operation Friendship means….
- Free Time Activities
- Visiting Key Sights
- Making New Friends
- Getting to know their host families
How the program works
Operation Friendship creates incredible programs showcasing our respective regions, our culture, and family life.
First year: Hosting
During the hosting year, delegates meet on a regular basis to get to know each other but also participate in activities to help raise money. Parents also meet frequently to put together a schedule of activities and budget for the summer program.
Summer hosting….
Our France chapter provides for the incoming US delegate:
Adult supervision for the entire 3 week program
Transportation to and from scheduled events
3 meals a day
A separate bed for the guest (but not necessarily a separate room)
In addition, we organise many outings. These activities range from trips to Paris and its outskirts, museum visits, camping, water parks and beaches, to biking through the Loire valley. Other activities could include lunches or dinner at popular spots and a rotation barbecues at family homes. As always, a welcome party and a farewell party are the two traditional key events.
Second year: Travel
French Delegates must be 15 years of age to travel to the United States. There are currently five countries – four in Europe plus South Africa who – travel to the United States the same year. During the year prior to the travel summer, delegates work together to raise money to help pay for the cost of travel. In April, the French delegates discover to which chapter their group will assigned and begin to connect with their host families.
Summer travel…
The French delegates travel to their assigned U.S. chapter (either Indiana or Massachusetts) to take part in a three-week program similar to the one they experienced during the hosting year. They are joined by delegates from other European countries, giving them the opportunity to make new friends from across Europe as well.