Hosts Sought For International Students

Pacific Intercultural Exchange (PIE), a nonprofit organization, is looking for families to host international students for the 2007-08 academic year. High school classes will start soon and interested parties must apply immediately.

The international students are between the ages of 15 and 18 years and come from Brazil, Germany, Iraq, Mexico, Pakistan, South Korea, Thailand, and others.

“The exchange program focuses on breaking down misconceptions between cultures through the medium of international exchange,” says Elvia Meza, director of operations for PIE. American teenagers can also study abroad through the organization.

The deadline to match students with families is August 31, and families can select an international student based on hobbies and interests as well as gender.

Family screening includes a background check, an in-home interview, and a verification of personal references. The international students are English-speaking and have their own spending money. Americans provide the caring environment, room, and daily meals.

Families who host PIE students are eligible to claim a $50 charitable contribution deduction on their itemized tax returns for each month they host a student.

For information, contact Pacific Intercultural Exchange at 888-743-8721 or visit PIEusa.org.