Teams have the option to hold in-person or virtual orientations. However, any in-person orientation must include a virtual option given that some volunteers, participants and host families will be more comfortable attending a virtual orientation. AFS-USA staff have developed Best Practices for Organizing In-Person Events and Orientations to aid volunteers in planning any in-person events. Volunteers must continue to follow territorial, tribal, and local recommendations and requirements for in-person gatherings. Staff will facilitate a small number of National Virtual PDOs over the summer to accommodate participants who are unable to attend their local virtual or in-person PDO.
Pre-Departure Orientation materials have been revised to accommodate a virtual or in-person format and include more content directed to parent(s)/guardian(s).
As was the case in NH20 and SH21, Gateway Orientations will not take place in the NH21 cycle. Travel and logistics webinars will be held that include a review of international flight logistics for the day of travel, and travel safety protocols. Participants will continue to receive their travel notification approximately 4 – 8 weeks prior to the departure of their program. International departure airports will be based upon a combination of program start dates (decided by AFS partners), destination, airline schedules and participant’s home address.