Host families sought for students

After a year of limited person-to-person connections, one organization is calling on Black Hills-area families to form new global ties within their communities through student exchange.
Greenheart Exchange seeks host families to welcome students for the 2021-22 school year.
Host families provide meals, a safe living environment and encouragement as their student navigates new cultural experiences.
“What a neat experience! My daughter got a sister and they continue to remain life-long friends for 10 years now," says Duke Boston of Belle Fourche, “It was so rewarding that we also hosted a student the following year. We learned that their culture is so different, yet so much the same.”
To qualify, families must be 27 years or older. They do not need to have children. Many host families are empty-nesters or retired.
Students in Greenheart Exchange programs are well-vetted, model students and are fluent in English. They bring their own money, have medical insurance and have a Greenheart voordinator to monitor and support them and their family. Prospective students supply a bio and an introduction letter to potential host families.
Exchange students come from many different countries to the United States to explore their passions and interests in a new culture.
Axelle, a 17-year-old student from France, hopes to spend her senior year in a community where she can explore outdoor activities like camping, swimming and skiing.
Students like Axelle xare eager to become immersed in the daily lives of their host families, join their American peers in school activities and play an active role in their host communities.
Dayna Dick of Rapid City, Greenheart coordinator for the local area, has experienced the relationship between exchange students and their host families.
“I was a host parent and my daughter was welcomed by a host family during a high school exchange to Germany,” says Dick. “I can appreciate how these exchange programs strengthen not only the young peoples’ ambitions, but also affirm the larger, positive picture of our global community.”
Families interested in hosting a Greenheart Exchange student should contact Dick at daynadick@gmail.com or (605) 484-2738.
Information about the Greenheart Exchange program is available at greenheartexchange.org.