International Cultural Exchange Services searching for host families

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Ever thought about what it would be like to bring a bit of the world into your home? Hosting an international exchange student through International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) gives families across the U.S. a chance to do just that—while making a lasting impact on a teenager’s life.

Each year, high school students from around the globe come to America not just to study, but to truly live the culture.

These students don’t stay in hotels or dorms—they join host families and become part of everyday life, from dinners around the table to family outings and school events.

Hosting isn’t just for big families with extra rooms.

Students can share a bedroom with a same-gender sibling who’s at least 12, and they arrive with their own spending money and health insurance.

Host families provide a bed, meals, and a welcoming, supportive environment.

Plus, families can claim a $50/month tax deduction during the time they host.

There’s no “perfect” family model.

Whether you live in a small town or a big city, have young kids or are an empty nester—or even live alone—there’s likely a student who would love to live with you.

What matters most is your willingness to share your life and culture.

Every host family gets a Local Coordinator for support, guidance, and help throughout the experience.

Local coordinator Julie Lee says she is looking for two to three local families to host a student in Logan and the surrounding counties:

 

From choosing a student to solving any bumps along the way, ICES is there to make sure it’s a smooth, rewarding journey for both you and your student.

Most ICES students have studied English for years and can communicate from day one.

Once they’re living with a host family and attending school, their language skills improve quickly.

They’re also encouraged to join school clubs, sports, and community activities, helping them fully experience American life—and contribute to yours.

Hosting an exchange student is more than a cultural experience—it’s a chance to build lifelong connections and make a difference in someone’s future.

Many host families stay in touch with their students long after the exchange ends.

Students who are seeking host families include:

Swimmers

  • Paula (Spain), 16, is a competitive swimmer with 12 years of English experience. Highly motivated, she trains 18 hours weekly and also referees soccer.
  • Zdenek (Czech Republic), 17, is a seasoned swimmer and cyclist. Known for his positivity and strong English skills, he looks forward to new cultural experiences.
  • Francesca (Italy), 16, is a longtime swimmer who also has a background in synchronized swimming and tennis. She’s described as cheerful and helpful.

Soccer Players

  • Carlos (Spain), 14, is a hardworking student and avid soccer player with 11 years of English.
  • Pablo (Spain), 15, is an outgoing goalkeeper who leads a top-ranked team.
  • Miguel (Spain), 15, is fluent in English and plays for one of the best clubs in his city. He also enjoys robotics, debate, and running.
  • Frieda Charlotte (Germany), 15, is captain of her soccer team and excels in school, leadership, and communication.
  • Jule (Germany), 16, is a team-oriented player who enjoys community service.
  • Nicole (Spain), 15, is a responsible student and dedicated soccer player who practices regularly.

Basketball Players

  • Lola (Spain), 14, is observant and diligent, with strong English fluency and a love for team dynamics.
  • Lucia (Spain), 14, is curious and academically driven, excited to join high school basketball.
  • Ariadna (Spain), 14, is a seasoned player who’s competed at the national level and also mentors younger players.
  • Julia (Spain), 14, is a top student and team leader who balances basketball with the debate club.
  • Ariet (Spain), 14, is known for her strong character and enthusiasm, and helps younger students at her school.

Scouts

  • Diego (Spain), 14, brings creativity and kindness, along with a love of judo, Scouts, and playing drums.
  • Daniel (Spain), 17, is a mature and insightful student who enjoys the outdoors and playing soccer.
  • Miriam (Spain), 16, has been in Scouts for 7 years and values cooperation, empathy, and academic engagement.
  • Marta (Spain), 14, is active in both Scouts and church, and plays competitive tennis. She looks forward to cultural immersion and making new friends.

Church-Affiliated Students

  • Claudia (Spain), 15, is a volleyball player with a strong academic interest in biology and medicine.
  • Alejandro Margo (Spain), 15, is a soccer player and swimmer who values family and looks forward to American holiday traditions.

All incoming students have strong English proficiency, with ELTIS scores ranging from 684 to 767, and most scoring in the top tier.

Their evaluations consistently note excellent communication, reading, and writing skills, indicating they are well-prepared for the American classroom and cultural experience.

If you’re ready to explore the opportunity, contact Julie at (419) 733-8653 or email her at [email protected].

You can also learn more at HERE.