October 15, 2020
Virtual Host Families Program
The U. S. Department of State delayed the arrival of students in the FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) and YES (Youth Exchange and Study) Programs due to the pandemic until January 2021. Organizations, including States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs, that host the program were asked to plan a Virtual Host Family Program during October, November and December for international students whom they will sponsor second semester under the government programs. Those who had not yet been placed for the semester program are to have this experience with a teen and his or her family just for the three month virtual program. Four Kansas teens and their families have agreed to participate in the Virtual Host Family program. The teens and families, their counties and exchange student are:
- Levi Meiwes and Paul & Becky Meiwes Family, Allen County, Hosting Maksym, Ukraine, (permanent)
- Maddie Anderson and Erik & Heather Anderson Family, Johnson County, Hosting Andien, Indonesia
- Desiree Ingalsbe and Dean & Judy Ingalsbe, Butler County, Hosting Hoorain, Pakistan
- Laura Koch and Luke & Susan Koch, Chase County, Hosting Lum Yea, Bangladesh
We look forward to following the progress of this trial effort to create a virtual, yet dynamic, learning experience for teens on opposite sides of the globe and their families.