Hello from the Volunteer Engagement Desk, March and April give us a powerful opportunity to pause, reflect, and show genuine appreciation to the people who make AFS possible—our host families and volunteers. Join us for this skill builder focused on turning appreciation into meaningful engagement. Together, we’ll explore simple, authentic ways to recognize and celebrate […]
The Volunteer Engagement Advisory Group (VEAG) is vital to the AFS-USA community, dedicated to supporting our national network of volunteers. Led by Patty Gentry, Director of Volunteer Engagement, and volunteer leader Kerry Gonzalez, this group serves as a strategic bridge between local efforts and national resources.
Check out the first episode of Season 6 of The AFS Exchange!
Please take a few moments to watch this video message in which Tara Hofmann shares an important update on our organization and what’s ahead.
Shape the Future of AFS: Join the Orientation Advisory Group to make your voice heard in shaping student and host family orientations.
Whitelisting AFS-USA emails helps ensure our messages land in your inbox—not your spam or junk folder.
The AFS School Outreach Advisory Group—led by Sarah Radermacher, Director of School Partnerships, and volunteer leader Jenny Treadway—helps shape how AFS connects with schools across the United States.
New volunteers and anyone looking to learn more about the MyAFS Volunteer Portal are invited attend this short webinar. A great chance to meet new volunteers and staff!
View the new January 2026 Orientation Volunteer Newsletter for important Mid-Year Orientation tips and training opportunities.
We are deeply saddened to share that Zdeněk Václav David, one of the very first AFS exchange students, passed away on December 15, 2025. Zed’s journey from Czechoslovakia to the U.S. in 1947 was made possible by AFS, and it set the stage for a remarkable life dedicated to learning, teaching, and connecting across cultures.