AFS is a large, international organization with many partners that make up the network of AFS Intercultural Programs. Each partner operates separately and is united with all others by sharing a common mission, educational framework and quality standards. It is important to understand the structure of AFS-USA, as well as the structure of AFS in your host country, to know where to turn if you need assistance for any reason.
AFS Volunteers
AFS stands out from many other exchange programs because it is a nonprofit organization that offers programs delivered primarily by local volunteers from the local community. Today, AFS is one of the largest volunteer-driven organizations in the world. Volunteers are often AFS returnees, former host families, families of AFS participants or others interested in promoting intercultural understanding. Volunteers work with regional AFS staff and are given comprehensive training according to the position they hold in their local team. The main goal of all AFS volunteers is to provide support for AFS participants and provide an authentic approach to your immersion program.
AFS-USA Staff
AFS-USA staff work remotely across the country, and out of the AFS-USA office in New York City. They are responsible for program logistics, planning, and implementation of our hosted programs across the country.
AFS Host Country
AFS is organized slightly differently in each country, but all AFS partners operate under the same mission and goals. Once you start your program, your direct AFS contacts will shift, from the AFS-USA staff you have been working with, to the AFS staff and volunteers in your host country. These will include local and/or regional support volunteers and an AFS local contact person specifically assigned to you. In some AFS organizations, participants are also in direct contact with AFS staff during orientations and other occasions.