The following activities are suggested in addition to or as part of your ongoing monthly contact with AFS students and host families.

Meet with host family (before student arrives).  Review expectations and highlights of their host family orientation materials (for example, Host Family Handbook).

Within one week of arrival, meet with newly arrived AFS student and provide them with your phone number. 

Have an informal social get-together with student and host family.

September

Check in with student after first week of school.

Have individual meetings or an informal social group gathering of family and the student.

October

Check in with the host school to see how the student is adjusting (if another volunteer isn't already doing this. 

November

Connect student with community service project, if available. 

December

Inform host family of the potential "low" in the adjustment cycle during this time of year.  Encourage student to be active and get involved in holiday celebrations during this month. 

January

Be sure the student is aware of mid-year orientation.

February

Check in with school again.

March

Help student think of ways to thank their host family during AFS Host Family Recognition Month.

April

Arrange a speaking engagement for student (local organizations or clubs if this isn't being done by other chapter or area volunteers.

May

Assist student with prom needs, graduation plans.

Help student prepare for departure (be sure they know about pre-departure events).

June

Assist student in finding out how to send items to their home country (encourage them to pack light for their return trip!)

Host a farewell get-together for the student and host family.

Help student write a farewell / thank you letter to the editor for the community newspaper.