In a foreign country far from home, a student studying abroad often needs a friendly and supportive anchor. As an International Friendship Family volunteer you can be that anchor and enrich your life and the student’s.

The International Friendship Family Program is designed to benefit both the student and the American family by providing opportunity for a special bond between cultures.

As a Friendship Family, you'll be asked to:

  • invite the student to outings such as dinner, shopping, sporting events, family gatherings, church activities, and local seasonal festivities (the family and student decide how often they see each other, depending on schedules and interests)
  • provide the student with a familial atmosphere and friendly support
  • discuss with the Center for International Education any potential problems or obstacles that the student may be facing
  • become aware of the student’s plan for holiday and break periods

To volunteer as a Friendship Family, contact Shya Erdman at sme100@juniata.edu.

When you volunteer for Juniata, don't forget to report your hours.