April is Volunteer Appreciation Month in the U.S! Volunteers are at the heart of AFS-USA, creating impact in their communities by fostering cross-cultural understanding, driving positive transformation, and inspiring personal growth. 

In this article, we’re spotlighting the AFS Greater Chicago Area Team, who recently facilitated an opportunity for hosted students to join a segment of Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez on WCPT 820 AM Chicago. 

“I’ve interviewed politicians, performers, business owners, authors, medical professionals, and leaders across a variety of industries — and some of the most dynamic, enthusiastic guests I’ve ever welcomed to my microphone have been AFS students. I’ve sat across from more than a dozen of them over the past two years, and what I discovered every single time was how much they bring to Chicago — and how much Chicago gives back to them.  

That’s not a coincidence. That’s a hundred years of knowing exactly what they’re doing. AFS places these students with real families, in real schools, inside real communities — and the result is proof that peace isn’t just a concept. It’s a person who shows up ready to understand the world.” 

— Patti Vasquez, Host, Driving It Home with Patti Vasquez, WCPT 820 AM Chicago 

This Drive It Home episode features hosted students Selin from Türkiye, Henrique from Portugal, Isabell from Germany, Qis from Malaysia, Amr from Egypt, as well as Toby, a first-time host parent for Isabell, and Lee, host parent to Henrique. AFS Volunteers and Returnees Vicci Rodgers and Sydney Hlavaty are also featured! 

Listen to the episode HERE!

Do you know a great AFS Volunteer or team that we should highlight? Send recommendations to marketing@afsusa.org!