Local Support for Host Families
Turn to an experienced host in your area when you have questions
Discover the Role of Local Coordinators
Becoming a host family can be a life-changing experience. And with the support of a CIEE local coordinator (LC), you can take on this journey with confidence.
LCs offer assistance and resources to ensure a smooth transition and lasting connections for both students and families. By choosing to sign up as a host family, you can create meaningful relationships with international students – and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a knowledgeable LC in your community.
What the Exchange Experience Means to LCs
"Just listening to the students and watching how much fun they’re having – that's my most fond memory. That’s why I keep doing this,” said Bethany Giordano, a local coordinator from Kentucky.
Gold Standard Service: Support That Never Sleeps
Supplying you with the support of local coordinators is just another way CIEE makes the hosting process easier for you. CIEE wants you to never feel alone, and that’s why our LCs:
- Provide personalized support and guidance throughout the exchange experience
- Ensure smooth communication between you, students, and schools
- Help resolve any challenges quickly and effectively
- Share expertise to make cultural and educational exchanges enriching
- Bring local knowledge and connections to enhance every student’s experience
- Commit to safety, support, and world-class service
How Local Coordinators Help Host Families
“My job as a local coordinator is to be the representative for CIEE in the field. The kids and the family need someone who’s going to be responsible and caring.”
– Dr. Michael Friday, LC from Oklahoma
“At least once a week, I try to check in with my students, check in with the families, and I try to do an event almost every month. I try to help a student who’s not clicking perfectly with their family, find their common ground, and use those communication skills.”
– Bethany Giordano, LC from Kentucky
“My role is to facilitate getting these kids places to live, and to work with those families to make the exchange work. I’ve learned a lot about our area, how many different cultures there are, and then I really try to integrate that into the rest of what I do.”
– Tom Taylor, LC from Minnesota
Frequently Asked Questions
You can start working with your local coordinator (LC) as soon as you’re accepted as a host family! Your LC can provide matchmaking services: You share what you’re looking for in a student, and your LC will provide you with profiles of students who would best fit into your family dynamic.
Your local coordinator (LC) becomes your go-to person for any questions or help throughout the BridgeUSA High School process. They can help:
- Match you with the right student
- Provide support and guidance to you and your student
- Build and maintain relationships with the local high schools
- Serve as a liaison between students, families, schools, and CIEE support staff
CIEE relies on our LCs to support both your family and your student and work to ensure you have a welcoming and memorable homestay.
All CIEE local coordinators (LCs) must pass a background check in order to qualify. LCs enjoy working with high school students, possess a library of resources, and have enjoyed many years sharing the benefits of international exchange. Most LCs have hosted or are currently hosting BridgeUSA high school students – meaning they can speak from experience when offering advice.
CIEE provides training for LCs to prepare them for all aspects of the position, such as local networking and support, community outreach, school partnerships, and intercultural training. LCs also receive additional support and training throughout the year from CIEE regional managers.
Have other questions? Learn more on our Host Families FAQ page.