Our host families come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re married, single, with or without children, just starting out or just retired – you can make a difference in the life of a young person when you volunteer to host an international exchange student. Rasheedah from Texas tells us how she started on her hosting journey as a single, and how it’s enhanced her life.

Praew and Rasheedah at the Brooklyn Bridge when they visited NYC during Spring Break!

What initially sparked your interest in hosting an exchange student generally and as a single person?

As I was scrolling through Facebook, I came across a post in one of my military groups that stated a need for a host family for an exchange student who’s host parents were moving away.  I was looking for something different in my life and decided to inquire about this opportunity. I reached out and met with Yolanda. She informed me of the program and the process in which both the students and host families had to go through. I really liked her energy and her welcoming personality and was at ease after talking with her. I knew that I wanted to try hosting a student but wasn’t sure who to choose from. I let Yolanda pick the student that would be best with my personality. She did great choosing Praew.

Praew during basketball game intermission!

What has your experience been like thus far with Aspect Foundation?

My experience with Aspect Foundation has been great. I have not had any concerns with my student nor my coordinator. I really can’t thank Yolanda enough for being there when needed and also knowing and understanding me enough to place a child in my home that would be a good fit for me; in our personalities, hobbies and likes, and overall synergy living and working together as a family.

Artwork by Praew during family paint night!

What would you say to folks who think hosting isn’t for them because they are single and/or have no children of their own in the household?

For families that are single or without children in the home, this is an opportunity for some great one on one interaction with your student. The bonding process is stronger and you really get to learn about another person and their culture. It will open your eyes, mind, and heart to something that is bigger than yourself.

Are you a single person who is looking to make a difference with youth? Why not host an exchange student for the 2019-2020 school year. Click the image below to find out more!