1. PAX/YES HOST FAMILY ORIENTATION To foster global understanding one homestay at a time.

2. What is Culture? Culture is not always overt We are all essentially ethnocentric We observe, interpret and then act We don’t know when we are offending others Awareness and knowledge increase our choices Understanding one’s own unique set of values, rules, and preferences is a first step

3. How Culturally Aware are You? Aspects of culture Sense of Self and Space Communication and Language Dress and Appearance Food and Eating Habits Time and Time Consciousness Relationships Values and Norms Beliefs and Attitudes Mental Process and Learning Work/Home Practices and Habits

4. Fears and Expectations Goals To identify family members’ and possible students’ fears and expectations about the hosting experience. To recognize that many families/students share these feelings To consider if these fears and expectations are realistic and to identify ways of dealing with them. Write down concerns about the host experience as well as any expectations.

5. Rules PAX/YES Program Rules Host Family Rules Spoken and unspoken Which rules are firm? Which rules are more flexible? Curfew… Telephone… Internet…

6. Communication Communication channels between student, family, coordinator and PAX National Office Communication is critical to a successful hosting experience. Host families should not treat their student as a guest, but should speak directly, clearly, and frankly from the very beginning. Communication begins by talking directly with the student. If the problem persists, the host family or student should call the Cluster Leader. As the Cluster Leader, I depend on regular communication.

7. Problem-Solving Case Studies Goals To underscore the importance of proper communication To remind all that there will be challenges during their experience Explore ways to solve problems

8. YES Program Students’ Goals First Semester 1.Define leadership qualities. 2.Choose a volunteer project (25 hrs per semester minimum). 3.School Presentation on home country during the International Education Week in November (100% participation a must) 4.Mentoring program in the community.

9. YES Students’ Goals 2 Second semester 1.Evaluate if any new leadership qualities acquired or polished. 2.Continue with a volunteer project (25 hrs per semester minimum) 3.Take a leadership role in a school club/team or community. 4.Send/email success stories/photos to PAX

10. PAX YES “Money Matters” $300 HF incidental fund for the student. Clothes School Supplies/Backpacks/Schoolbooks Other school-related expenses like field trips, etc. Maximum of $100 for prom dress $10 for watch Make up, toiletries, jewelry, gifts, phone cards, CDs should be paid from the student’s monthly stipend. Keep your receipts and send it with the Reimbursement Report to the National Office, attention Bea Santos.

11. Practical Matters Host family handbook; Pages 31-37 Any questions???

12. Wrap-up and Future Plans Enjoy this experience!! Contact me with any concerns, questions, etc. Would we like to get together as a group for a pot luck, etc?