California – December 2023 – Wrapping presents and being on the news! International Student Exchange students came together for a rewarding community service event through their program, Project HELP, partnering with Lost But Not Forgotten, a wonderful organization who’s goal is to help teenagers and kids in their local communities who are experiencing a temporary hardship that doesn’t allow them to have a normal Christmas. Many of the students had never wrapped a present before, so they had a fun time learning a new skill while helping those in need.
ISE started a volunteer student program called “Project HELP” back in 2006. The program is designed to increase community service for their foreign exchange students. Each student completes a minimum of five hours. Most students surpass their minimum requirement.
“Project HELP seems to be getting bigger every year. The past couple of years we noticed our students do more and more for their community. Last year we completed 20,000 community service hours. This year we jumped to 25,000!” Stated Gary Lubrat, Project HELP Co-Chair.
ISE doesn’t focus on just one type of community service. They want the student to participate in activities that are important to their community or their own passion. In past years, students got involved in community cleanup projects, food banks, clothing drives and even some students helped in the Colorado Floods.
ISE has also partnered up with the Red Cross and Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) to give exchange students a chance to work within in their community and nationally.
“For students that weren’t sure what groups or activities to get involved with, the Red Cross and RMHC partnership solved that issue. Both organizations provided great community service opportunities throughout our communities,” explained Gary.
We invite you to read more about hosting a foreign exchange student. If you have specific questions about hosting, check out our host family FAQ page. You can also read testimonials from our past and current host families. When you feel ready, complete our host family interest form and our area representative will get in touch with you.
You can also get involved by joining our team of Area Representatives! Help match host families and exchange students and bring the world closer together, while making a supplemental income.
