The objectives of the Hosting Advisory Group are to provide input and feedback to proposals and to evaluate and make recommendations for improvement regarding the following:
- Host family lead management system
- Host family recruitment initiatives, strategies, and resources
- Marketing initiatives and strategies related to host family recruitment
- Host family application and screening process
- Other issues related to host family recruitment and screening, as appropriate
As appropriate, members of this Advisory Group will communicate with other hosting volunteers to receive or solicit feedback regarding the above topics. They can also bring new topics of discussion to the group that endeavor to move he organization towards meeting the goal of a volunteer-driven host family recruitment process that meets Department of State deadlines for hosted student placements.
What is the composition of the Hosting Advisory Group?
The Hosting Advisory Group consists of both volunteers and staff members and will be chaired by a member of the Field Staff. Volunteer representation will consist of volunteers from multiple geographical regions. In addition, up to three members of the Field staff and at least one Hosting Operations staff member will be on the group.
The ideal volunteer will have experience as an Area Team Hosting Coordinator or as a local hosting volunteer and will be sufficiently knowledgeable of AFS processes and systems to be able to contribute in a meaningful way to the group’s work.
| Name | Role | Team |
| Ann Weeden* | Volunteer | World Class |
| Renee Hayes* | Staff | Staff |
| Sara Roberts* | Staff | Staff |
| Kris Adams | Volunteer | Greater Minneapolis |
| Keith Byron | Volunteer | Greater Indiana |
| Sarah Clapp | Volunteer | Capital |
| Sheila Foery | Volunteer | Finger Lakes NY |
| Carmen Nolke | Volunteer | Kansas City |
| Heather Stertz | Volunteer | World Flags |
*Advisory Group Co-chairs
How much time is required?
The Hosting Advisory Group will meet approximately once per month for a one-hour conference call. In addition, regular email correspondence among group members in between the regularly scheduled calls is expected.
How long are the terms of membership?
Hosting Advisory Group members commit to being active and responsible members for a minimum two-year term. Members may renew for up to three terms.
How can I get involved?
If you are interested in serving on the Hosting Advisory Group, please complete the interest form here.