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1. What is the commitment as a host family?

Three students come for three weeks, each staying one week with a different host family. We're looking for 9 families to host one Japanese high school student for 6-7 days this summer to help them experience typical American life. They'll eat, play and interact with the entire family. It's helpful to have at least one child in the family, but they don't need to be a teen. However, one parent should be at home during the week of hosting.

2. Will the students speak English?

Most of the students will have studied English in school and will speak some English, but may not be fluent and will be shy to speak at first. Our experience is that their English improves during the stay ad that families have a great deal of fun working through communication matters. Apps and electronic translators are readily available, and Japanese language speakers will be available in case of emergencies.

3. How are host families chosen?

The Midland-Handa Sister City Committee will select 9 families from the applicant pool. Selected families will be invited to an orientation meeting.

4. How do we entertain the students?

There will be a mix of planned group activities for the students and host families (Loons game, day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, high school tour & canoeing) but most of the time, it's up to you. We encourage and will facilitate communication among the 3 host families to provide the broadest range of experiences. Some families have treated their students to trips to Mackinac Island, Greenfield Village, a Tigers game, etc., but out-of-town experiences are not required.

5. Will students have money? What do host families pay for?

All the Sister City group activities are provided free of charge to the students and their host families. Students bring spending money for souvenirs and snacks. Host families provide meals and cover activities that you plan - tickets to events or venues, overnight travel, gifts, etc.

6. How do we get more information?

Host families, once selected, will be given an orientation session and an opportunity to meet each other. If you have questions now, contact any of the Sister City Committee members by e-mail at midlandhanda@gmail.com