Illinois 4-Hers, 12 – 18 years of age are encouraged to make the global connection by participating in a 4-week homestay exchange in Australia, Costa Rica, Finland, or a 4-8 week homestay Japan.

Through 4-H international exchange programs 4-Hers become a member of a host family in another country. Participants gain first hand experience and knowledge of their new country as they work along side host siblings and parents to experience daily life, culture, special customs and traditions.

Four-H members traveling to Costa Rica or Finland will be placed with 4-H families in that country. They will participate in a week of camp that is sponsored by the 4-H organization in that country during their homestay. Individuals interested in either Costa Rica or Finland need to be at least 15 years of age before their travel begins.

Four-H members with a strong interest in Agriculture would find the Australia exchange interesting as they will be living with a working farm or ranch family in the Melbourne region of southern Australia. Individuals interested in traveling to Australia need to be 16 years of age before their travel begins.

Travel to Japan provides 4-Hers with two options. The Nihongo program which begins in mid June provides an opportunity to learn Japanese in a classroom setting and explore Japanese culture in an outside setting in the Tokyo region before starting the four-week homestay in July. The second option is to participate in a four week homestay that begins the first week of July and ends the first week of August.

Individuals wanting more information may contact their local Extension office for an application packet. Individuals who would like to hear about past experiences by 4-Hers traveling to these countries are encouraged to contact Bill Million at the U of I State 4-H Office 217-244-6218 or at wmillion@illinois.edu. In McLean County, you may contact the 4-H office at 309-663-8306.

For additional information regarding application materials ,etc. CLICK HERE.