Neighbor News
Three decades has only strengthened the bond
AFS host family and their Netherland daughter reunite after 30 years to share a family vacation.
On Nelson Mandela International Day, it's important to reflect on the value of
international, intercultural high school exchanges in fostering peace and
understanding. Nelson Mandela championed these ideals, and at AFS-USA, we
continue his legacy by promoting active global citizenship through
transformative intercultural experiences.
With over 75 years of dedication, AFS-USA brings well over a thousand high school
students from more than 80 countries to communities across the United States
annually. Here in Geneva, Batavia and St Charles, over 350 international
students have lived with host families, attend local schools, and engage in
community life, enriching our cultural fabric and fostering lasting bonds in
the last 50 years.
One such lasting bond was started back in 1994 when, then 17 year old Laura Vennik,
from the Netherlands, came with AFS to live with Carol and Steve Young and
their 3 young boys in Geneva, IL. Over these 30 years, the Young’s and Laura
have kept in touch, visiting back and forth a few times. This summer Laura has
returned with her husband, Edwin and 2 teen-aged boys, Symen and Maes, to
experience the boundary water canoe trip that the Youngs took her on 3 days
after her arrival in 1994. Laura said, “My exchange year is something I think
about often and remember how all the adjustments I made during that year have
served me well in life.” Her son’s are having fun noting all the differences
they see, such as the numerous fast food chain, big roads and big cars! They are
excited to experience the canoeing trip their mother experienced when she was
their age and look forward to a road trip to the Badland’s as well. The Young’s
have enjoyed having a “daughter” and international grandson as well!
Find out what's happening in Bataviafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
International high school students offer fresh perspectives, volunteer in local projects, and
build friendships that transcend borders, leaving a positive impact on both
them and their host communities. As we honor Nelson Mandela’s legacy, we invite
everyone to join us in nurturing compassionate, globally minded leaders by
hosting a student or volunteering with AFS-USA.
