You asked. We listened. Let’s build together.
Earlier this year, Chairs told us they wanted more opportunities for community, connection, peer learning and practical support. We’ve shaped this series around that feedback.
SAVE THE DATES
CHAIR SERIES
For Area Team Chairs | 8:00 pm ET
| Date | Session | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 9/23/2026* *Welcome any volunteers who are interested in learning about the role and how that intersects with the Chair’s role. | The Chair’s Role | – The purpose of the Chair role – How different teams leverage the Chair role – What only the Chair can do – What the Chair should never do alone – Common pitfalls – What support exists from AFS-USA and fellow Chairs |
| 10/28/2026** **Welcome volunteers who play a role in building your team! | Building Your Team | Organize your team given the volunteers you have today. – Team vision and goals – Assessing the needs of your team based on vision and goals – Identifying the key functions every Area – Team needs – Matching volunteers to strengths and interests – Creating small, manageable volunteer roles – Delegating outcomes instead of tasks – Succession planning from day one |
| 12/2/2026 | Chair Problem Solving Lab | We’ll collect challenges ahead of time and tackle them together. You’ll leave with ideas and support from fellow Chairs. Example topics: – We can’t recruit host families. – Nobody will take coordinator roles. – My volunteers are burned out. – Student placement challenges. |
| 1/27/2027 | Chair Problem Solving Lab | |
| 3/24/2027 | Chair Problem Solving Lab | |
| 7/28/2027 | Chair Problem Solving Lab | |
| 9/22/2027 | Chair Problem Solving Lab |
Bring your questions. Share what’s working. Learn from Chairs across AFS-USA.
SKILL BUILDER SERIES
For Chairs, Volunteer Engagement Coordinators & all interested volunteers | 3:00 pm & 8:00 pm ET
| Date | Skill Builder |
|---|---|
| 12/26/2026 | Volunteer recruitment and ending the year strong |
| 3/17/2027 | Host family recruitment and school engagement |
| 4/21/2027 | Volunteer engagement |
| 6/16/2027 | Planning long-term |
Practical ideas and skills you can take back to your team.