LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mich. — The Rotary Youth Exchange program is now seeking Livingston County families to host foreign exchange students for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering a unique opportunity to bring global cultures into local homes.
“We’re always looking for good host families,” said Pattie Courtney, Chair of Rotary Youth Exchange for District 6380. The program places roughly 9,000 high school students worldwide each year, giving them the chance to study abroad while living with local host families.
Eligible participants are between 15 and 18.5 years old at the time of departure. Each student must maintain strong academic performance and successfully complete an interview process through their sponsoring Rotary Club.
In the current school year, six international students took part in the program in Livingston County. Four were enrolled at Howell High School, one attended Dexter Community Schools while residing in Pinckney, and another studied at Hartland High School.
Howell residents Jade and Travis Hodge have hosted two exchange students over the past two years—one from Taiwan and another from Colombia—both seniors at Howell High. What began as curiosity quickly grew into a lasting commitment.
“We’ve always believed in the power of cultural exchange,” said Jade Hodge. “We wanted to help young people experience life in a new country, and we were excited to bring a little more of the world into our home.”
The family’s favorite moments include introducing their students to American holiday traditions like Halloween and Christmas. Hodge noted that seeing their students gain confidence, improve their English, and immerse themselves in a new culture was among the most rewarding aspects of the program.
“We’ve built bonds that last far beyond the exchange year,” she said. “It’s a truly life-changing experience. You gain a new family member, learn about different cultures firsthand, and get to see your own life through a fresh lens. It’s one of the most enriching things a family can do together.”
The Rotary Youth Exchange offers both long-term and short-term study abroad programs. The full-year exchange begins each August, with host family applications opening Aug. 1. Interested families undergo a thorough vetting process, including interviews, references, and mandatory training.
The short-term summer exchange is a reciprocal, family-to-family arrangement, which Courtney said helps strengthen global ties.
“At the heart of what we do is the idea of fostering peace and cross-cultural understanding,” Courtney added.
For more information, families can consult Study Abroad Guides provided by Rotary or visit their local club to explore how they can be part of this impactful program.
