Become a
host family
Becoming a host family is one of the most exciting adventures you can experience! Families come in all shapes and sizes. There is not a "normal" family. All types of families are considered. Are you single and would enjoy having someone to share your life with and show them your local community? Are you an empty nester that understands the importance of diplomacy through relationship building? Do you have children that are all younger but you feel they would love an older brother or sister? Families with students in high school are great but not necessary.
You are sharing diplomacy at its very best. By living with a family like yours and experiencing an American lifestyle through your lens, these young ambassadors return home with a personal connection and experience that will forever change how they see the United States and the people living here. Likewise, your family will experience first-hand an individual from another culture while gaining a new family member. Families often comment on how they thought they would be providing this and that to a student and in the end, they can't believe how much they gained by welcoming someone into their home. These students are part of your family and should not be viewed as visitors for the next five or ten months. While there are typical cultural hiccups, that is where the learning begins. Open your heart and home to the world. You won't regret it..
Student: Elena from Spain
Host Family: Gady Family from Bloomington
Natural Parents of Elena: Dr. Javier and Sylvia Pizones
Gady Family from Bloomington:
Hosting an exchange student has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and her transition into our family was seamless. From the moment she arrived, it felt like she was meant to be a part of our lives. It’s been amazing to witness the cultural exchange firsthand, as we’ve shared our traditions and learned about hers. From discovering new foods and customs to gaining a fresh perspective on global issues, every day brought something new. It has also brought our family closer together—we now spend more time together, whether it's playing games, exploring new places, or just enjoying each other’s company. The bond we've formed with our exchange student has been deeply fulfilling; seeing her grow, adapt, and truly become part of our family has been a joy. It’s a unique opportunity to not only broaden our own worldview but also to help shape someone else's, creating memories and connections that will last a lifetime. We are so thankful for iGoGo for this opportunity and the chance to work with a wonderful program.
Dr. Javier and Sylvia Pizones:
Our daughter Elena is doing her academic year in the US and it has been a blessing to find Igogo to organize her stay. Igogo has been able to find a wonderful family, full of energy, hospitality, positivity, and affection. Dawna has made our life very easy, in direct contact she has been warm and attentive, she shows a professionalism out of the ordinary, and she has been very resolute in the difficulties we have encountered along the way. The years of experience and the deep knowledge of the needs of both the children who spend the year away and the natural parents who are at a distance are noticeable. Igogo has become an extension of us (the parents) during the exchange year, creating the perfect bond. Igogo takes care of Elena's well-being her integration into the family and the school, following Elena's life very closely, but at the same time respecting her space and privacy. Undoubtedly, a highly recommended choice for the year of exchange.
Elena:
The Gady family has become my second family. We will be a part of each other's lives forever. I want to thank you for all of the effort and dedication you have put into the program and everyone involved. I'll send you pictures from our time in New York!