What is the main benefit in becoming a Community Representative?
When you become an AYUSA Community Representative (CR), you'll join a team of dedicated people who place a high priority on strengthening their communities through cross-cultural enrichment. As the first point of contact for the AYUSA program, you'll find rewarding adventure -- and loads of fun -- while helping host families create lasting bonds of friendship with an exchange son or daughter.

Is this a paid position?
CRs receive a stipend payment for each student they place in a host family and supervise. The stipend is divided into four payments. The first payment is received when a host family placement is confirmed, the second after the student arrives, the third mid-year, and the fourth payment after the student departs.

How much time does this position require?
Your level of commitment is completely up to you. Spending quality time with our families and students is more important than a set amount of hours sitting at a desk. If you are a home-based parent or retired, you may choose to devote more time to the AYUSA program. If you work long hours away from home, you are encouraged to set a schedule that works best for you. Evenings and weekends are excellent times for host family recruitment and visiting with students.

Do I need to be a host parent while working as a CR?
No, you don't need to be a permanent host parent, but you should be prepared to host a student, temporarily, if a placement is canceled or a second home is required.

Who will be my supervisor?
You will receive complete training and ongoing support from a Regional Director (RD) in your community. The Regional Director provides leadership and oversees all aspects of the AYUSA program in a geographic region. Your RD is always available to guide you through new situations, and will step in whenever you need a helping hand.

Are there any AYUSA staff members living near me?
Members of the AYUSA team live in all 50 states. As a CR, you will be part of a team of individuals who work side by side in various school communities throughout your state. You will enjoy sharing and learning from one another during regional meetings hosted by your Regional Director.

Will my local schools accept AYUSA students?
AYUSA is in good standing with all organizations which oversee student exchange. Most high schools reserve some enrollment space for exchange students. A CR is expected to maintain a positive and professional relationship with each high school in their community, and remain well informed of any specific policies and guidelines a school might require.