Spanish Exchange Program Seeks Host Families

You’ve probably seen the fluorescent orange, green, and yellow signs adorning the telephone poles in Cherry Hill and neighboring towns, reading, “Please help, Host Families Needed for students from Spain, 7/1-7/29.”

So far these signs, bright as they are, have attracted only six host families—and with Facebook and email campaigns coming up empty, only a handful more have stepped up via word of mouth.

“When I first took on this job, I knew it was going to be challenging, but not this challenging,” Herman said. “I’m very happy to have the host families that have signed up, but I feel bad for the students from Spain who want to experience life in America, but may not get the chance.”

Herman, who has signed up eight host families thus far, still needs to place seven more Spanish students, and time is starting to run short.

“These students are recommended for this program, and they’re depending on me to get them here,” he said.

The families that have signed up to host students have done so for diverse reasons.  Several of the parents involved have strong ties to Hispanic culture. One woman was an au pares from Brazil, another an exchange student from Peru. Some of the families just think it’s a great idea to give a young person the opportunity to come to America and are also excited to have their own children learn about Spanish culture firsthand.

“Coincidentally, several of the families are professionally involved with the visual and performing arts,” Herman said. “Still others have hosted German exchange students through a Collingswood High School program, and they liked it so much that they now want to host Spanish students.”

Students from Spain slated to visit in July can speak and write in English, but they want to improve. To that end, they will be taking intensive English courses while they are here, 3 days per week. Students will also participate in many fun activities, including 2 trips to New York City, a trip to Avalon, a visit to historic Philadelphia, and a Camden Riversharks game. Host families are invited to participate in all of the activities. Transportation is provided for free by Global Friendships and tickets to events are discounted.

Herman credited numerous people in Cherry Hill and beyond who have helped with the push to find host families, including outgoing Cherry Hill West principal Joseph Meloche and Rev. Patrick R. Close, of Grace Church in Haddonfield.

“Few people have reached out to lend a hand, but Father Pat’s kindness, along with the welcome I received at Grace Church, make all the work I put into this job worthwhile,” Herman said.

If you're interested in hosting a student from Spain, contact Herman as soon as possible at 856-287-2393.