Having previously worked in the field of mediation, I know mediators are often interested in cross-cultural understanding.  Here's a way to build cross-cultural understanding right in your own home!

Host an International High School Exchange Student Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State

Hosting an exchange student not only changes a student's life in a meaningful way, but also has a great impact on the host family. Almost 2,000 high school students representing over 50 countries are awarded highly competitive merit-based State Department scholarships to study in the United States each academic year. These promising young leaders live with American host families across the county, attend high school, participate in extracurricular and community service activities, and give back to their host communities. These exchange students arrive as strangers, but leave as family. One host mom remarked, "We are honored to have such an incredible person as an exchange student. She delights us with her wit, grace, and kindness every day. Inviting her into our home has been one of the best things we have ever done."

The benefits of hosting an exchange student go beyond simply welcoming someone new into your family's life and sharing American culture, values, and traditions - when you host an exchange student you welcome a new culture, a new language, and all the richness that comes with it into your home. Your family will be able to experience the world from the comfort of your own home, while showing a new life and culture to a student eager to see it. Learn more at http://hosting.state.gov. You can also email us at youthprograms@state.gov.