ROTARY DISTRICT 5440
COWBOY COUNTRY YOUTH EXCHANGE PROGRAM
YEO Host Family Page
Recruiting and screening host families is one of the most important jobs for YEOs. This page includes details on the required forms and processes related to host families.
There is a download file on the left that has Hints for Recruiting Host Families. Recruiting is an ongoing process so that families are available when you need them.
Once you have identified a potential host family there are several steps that must be completed. These must be completed for every family before the student moves in with that family.
- The Host Family Checklist (downloads list on the left) must be completed by the YEO for each host family.
- Every member of the family 18 years of age or older must submit a volunteer affidavit (downloads list on the left) .
- The online Host Family Application must be completed (link to the left).
- The YEO must conduct an interview and orientation with the entire host family.
After the YEO has completed the above steps they must determine if the host family will provide a safe, comfortable and nurturing environment for the student. If that determination is made the Host Family Checklist should be submitted to the appropriate Country Representative on the District YE Committee. The Country Representative will review the online application, references and checklist prior to approving a host family. You cannot move a student into that host family home until the Country Representative approves the host family application and returns the signed checklist to the YEO.
HOST FAMILY ORIENTATION
Each host family must be interviewed and provided an orientation prior to moving a student into the home. When orienting them be sure to provide a copy of the Department of State letter to host families that is in the download list. Review the entire Host Family Orientation with all members of the family who will be living in the home when the exchange student is present.
HOST FAMILY ORIENTATION
Each host family must be interviewed and provided an orientation prior to moving a student into the home. When orienting them be sure to provide a copy of the Department of State letter to host families that is in the download list. Review the entire Host Family Orientation with all members of the family who will be living in the home when the exchange student is present.
The orientation document mentions the first night questionnaire. It is helpful for new host families to review those questions before the student moves in. Encourage them to discuss anything that seems particularly important to them in the first day or two after the student moves in (e.g., dishes, laundry, curfew, sharing the bathroom, etc.). Provide a copy of the Department of State letter to host families.
Each host family must receive the federal regulations governing secondary school students. You don’t have to review it line by line with them but they must receive a copy. It is a very long file, we suggest that you send it to them by email.