Live Your Faith, Change the World
Host an Indiana Academy Student
Our church community has a special opportunity to partner with the Indiana Academy of Math, Science and Humanities (at Ball State University) and iGoGo International, Inc. We are seeking families willing to open their homes and hearts to host high school international students during the Academy's dorm breaks.
This is a unique, part-time ministry to influence bright young students while expanding our own understanding of the world. We enthusiastically support this effort and hope you'll consider becoming a part-time host family.
About the Program:
iGoGo International, Inc. is a mission-driven student exchange organization dedicated to fostering global understanding through cultural immersion. Guided by Christ's call in Matthew 25:35, "...I was a stranger and you welcomed me," they connect students with carefully selected local families during breaks from the Indiana Academy dorms.
Your Role as a Host Family:
- Provide a welcoming "home base" for a student during scheduled breaks (usually one weekend a month, plus fall, Christmas, and spring breaks).
- Share everyday American family life – a vital form of personal diplomacy and cultural exchange.
- Live out your faith through hospitality, kindness, and faithfulness, allowing Christ to work through you.
host family
faq
No, it's not required. Building a genuine relationship is key. Through connection, students become open to learning about Christ and see American life beyond media portrayals.
Yes, you'll be hosting a guest, sharing meals and household resources as you would for family. iGoGo provides a $100 monthly stipend to help offset these costs. Students cover their own Academy expenses.
iGoGo provides a dedicated local coordinator for ongoing support and guidance throughout the experience.
Host families provide supervision for care, assisted by the coordinator. All medical costs are covered by the student's insurance.
It's a transformative experience! Opening your home to someone from a different culture requires flexibility and love, but it expands your perspective and deepens your faith as you see the diversity of God's creation. Your faithfulness is in saying "yes" and allowing God to work in both the student's life and your own family.
For the academic year, during scheduled breaks. Students typically arrive shortly before school starts and depart after it ends.