International Camp Counselor Program Creates Connections, Supports American Economy

As the summer comes to a close, international camp counselors, who shape the experience of so many American campers, will be crossing over land and sea to return to their homes abroad. Not only does their experience infuse American camps with diverse cultures from across the world, a recent study shows it also provides these counselors the opportunity to forge relationships in the U.S. that they carry with them for years to come. These relationships and improved impressions of America help strengthen our national security.

The Department of State’s international Camp Counselor program annually brings international counselors to the United States for up to four-months during the summer. The program offers international visitors the chance to temporarily work alongside American colleagues, immerse themselves in American culture, and develop skill sets.

While international camp counselors have a lot to gain by participating in the program, the United States gains the opportunity to advance its public diplomacy goals. A recent study by EurekaFacts, Camp Counselor Program 2019 Review Report, found that the U.S. is increasing mutual understanding with each international camp counselor’s return home. According to the report, 84% of alumni report a more positive opinion about the U.S. and American culture after their experience at American camps. An astounding 98% of participants made connections with Americans, and over 91% kept in touch with those American connections after leaving the program. Participants noted that earning money is the least important motivator when deciding to participate in the program.

The U.S., on the other hand, benefits economically from the Camp Counselor program. In 2018, international camp counselors contributed over $59 million to the economy during their 30-day travel period at the conclusion of the program. In these 30 days alone, international camp counselors leave a big economic footprint, especially in New York, Pennsylvania, and Maine, where they contribute over $4 million in industries related to lodging and entertainment. Additionally, host camps see the program as a major benefit. In fact, 96% said that exposing American counselors and campers to international culture is a top motivator for participating in the program. Moreover, 99% of host camps offer equivalent chances regarding job opportunities for Americans in the U.S., as well as equal training and development opportunities.

Host camps also rely on the program for the success of their businesses. 91% of host camps believe their organization would be negatively impacted if the Camp Counselor program ceased to exist. Additionally, in the absence of international camp counselors, 78% indicated that their camp services would be reduced, and 50% reported this would result in the inability to operate during the summer season, leading to a drastic decrease in revenues.

The Department of State’s Camp Counselor program creates a network of cross-cultural connections that transcend borders. In addition to being a valuable public diplomacy tool, the program also helps American businesses and strengthens our economy, which is why it enjoys wide support from campers and their families to federal policy makers.

Ilir Zherka is Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

Laine Cavanaugh, Alliance Associate Director, contributed to this article.

Letter to the Editor: Baltimore Sun "U.S. summer work visa exploits foreigners”

Dear Editor:

Rachel Micah-Jones’ opinion article, “U.S. summer work visa exploits foreigners,” (August 6) neglects to mention the strong evidence that the Summer Work Travel program (SWT) is both protecting participants and serving our national security interests.

While we cannot comment on her reported site visits, the picture she paints is in sharp contrast with a rigorous, empirical study in 2017 of SWT. That study shows that 91 percent of alumni reported being satisfied with the program, and 74 percent said they had a higher overall regard for the United States.

Protection of participants is critical to SWT sponsor organizations and to the State Department, which oversees the program. All host employers and job placements are thoroughly vetted; all participants must be paid the exact same wage as American co-workers; and all participants can change job placements at any time – a participant’s visa is never tied to their host employer.  U.S. sponsor organizations are in monthly contact with every participant, and meet with many in person during site visits. There are many more regulatory protections beyond these.

Perhaps one of the more important statistics of the 2017 SWT study is that 98 percent of alumni said they would recommend the program to a friend. That statistic demonstrates that, for the vast majority of SWT participants, the program is successful in providing international students with positive, life-changing experiences.

August 5 is Exchange Day – The Annual Celebration of International Exchange

Washington, D.C. – Exchange Day is an annual celebration of international educational and cultural exchange programs. Today, event participants are raising awareness about the power of exchange, while connecting participants and alumni with their local communities.

Around the United States, 35 organizations are hosting more Exchange Day events than ever before – 60 events in 26 states and the District of Columbia. For the first time, organizations are also hosting events in three other countries, specifically Hungary, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

“Exchange Day encourages and inspires our alumni and participants to take action and practice the lessons of cultural appreciation and understanding,” said Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Marie Royce. “These actions strengthen their own communities and share what they have learned through Exchange Programs."

Under the motto “Eat, Play, Give,” sponsor organizations provide international exchange participants an opportunity to enjoy American cuisine and take part in volunteering in their host communities. This year, events include a park clean up in New York City, New York; volunteering at a food bank in San Antonio, Texas; and a charity toy drive in San Francisco, California.

“The growing success of Exchange Day reinforces that program sponsors and supporters are actively pursuing ways to increase mutual understanding between peoples, which is the principal goal of exchange programs,” said Ilir Zherka, Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

Exchange Day is a grassroots level initiative by local organizations, companies, and individuals celebrating the power of international exchange.

The Alliance for International Exchange promotes the growth and impact of exchange programs. Since 1993, it serves as the collective public policy voice for now over 90 nongovernmental organizations comprising the international educational and cultural exchange community in the United States.

ILR Piece on Summer Work Travel Fatally Flawed

Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange, Ilir Zherka, released a statement today in response to the International Labor Recruitment’s piece entitled “Shining A Light on Summer Work.”

“Shining A Light on Summer Work” unfortunately is a poorly sourced opinion piece that is replete with conjecture and woefully lacking in empirical evidence for its argument. A rigorous 2017 study of SWT, however, paints a different and much more accurate picture: 91 percent of alumni reported being satisfied with the program; 74 percent said they had a higher overall regard for the U.S. after participating; and 98 percent said they would recommend the program to a friend.

Protection of participants is critical to SWT sponsor organizations and to the State Department, which oversees the program. All host employers and job placements are thoroughly vetted; all participants must be paid the exact same wage as American co-workers; and all participants can change job placements at any time – a participant’s visa is never tied to their host employer. U.S. sponsor organizations are in monthly contact with every participant, and meet with many in person during site visits. There are many more regulatory protections beyond these.

But here again, ILR’s piece is misleading. It references that 67 people called into an anti-trafficking hotline over a three-year period. Exchange sponsors strive for a zero incident culture, and that number comes close as it represents .006 percent of the nearly 1 million people who were in the U.S. as an exchange visitor during that same time. That statistic actually confirms how well the State Department regulations are protecting participants.

SWT is a valuable cultural exchange that supports the U.S. public diplomacy efforts and economy. It provides college students around the world opportunities to experience America and improve their English. Hundreds of thousands of students have taken part over 60 years, and our data show they have great experiences. These students would not keep coming back, nor would they recommend the program to friends, if that were not the case.

SWT is a win-win: it supports America’s national security, foreign policy, and economy, while providing international students with life-changing exchange experiences. That is why it enjoys broad bipartisan support in Washington, DC, as well as tremendous community support in the United States and around the world.

Letter to the Editor: Guardian "Foreign Students Hired for Summer Jobs..."

Dear Editor:

Legrain’s article, “Foreign students hired for summer jobs … ” (July 30) unfortunately disparages the U.S.’ Summer Work Travel (SWT) exchange program without an opportunity for supporters of the program to comment.

The article’s focus is a poorly sourced opinion piece that is replete with conjecture and woefully lacking in empirical evidence for its argument. A rigorous 2017 study of SWT, however, paints a different and much more accurate picture: 91 percent of alumni reported being satisfied with the program; 74 percent said they had a higher overall regard for the U.S. after participating; and 98 percent said they would recommended the program to a friend.

Protection of participants is critical to SWT sponsor organizations and the State Department. All host employers and job placements are thoroughly vetted, participants must be paid the exact same wage as American co-workers, and all participants can change job placements at any time. Moreover, U.S. sponsor organizations are in monthly contact with every participant, meeting in person with many through site visits.

But here again, Legrain’s article is misleading. It references that 67 people called into an anti-trafficking hotline over three years. Exchange sponsors strive for a zero incident culture, and that number comes close as it represents .006 percent of the nearly 1 million people who were in the U.S. as an exchange visitor during that time. That statistic actually confirms how well the State Department regulations are protecting participants.

The Summer Work Travel program has thrived because it is well regulated and provides meaningful cultural exchange experiences.

Sincerely,

Ilir Zherka
Executive Director
Alliance for International Exchange

U.S. Portugal sign an MOU to Establish a 12-month Pilot Program for 5 years

Assistant Secretary Marie Royce and Portuguese Ambassador to the United States Domingos Fezas Vital signed an MOU on February 11.

The ceremony commemorated the launch of a 12-month pilot program that will run for five years, initially, between both nations with the intent to provide structured training for young American and Portuguese participants interested in learning about innovation, organizational growth and development. The Program was created based on collaboration among the Office of Private Sector Exchange (ECA), the U.S. Embassy in Portugal, and the Portuguese Ministry of Education.

The focus of the program will be on innovation – Portuguese interns/trainees will train at U.S. host organizations (for-profit and non-profit) that evidence innovation, are at an early stage in their development, or are pursuing advanced manufacturing.

Assistant Secretary Royce, following the signing, tweeted; “Today I was pleased to sign an entrepreneur-focused MOU, with Ambassador Domingos Fezaz Vital, between the U.S. and Portugal. Aimed at increasing global competitiveness, the program provides reciprocal benefits to U.S. and Portuguese participants. A win for both our countries.”

Exchange programs are a two-way street when it comes to commerce and industry.

As published on the American Foreign Service Association's website in January 2019.

By Marie Royce

Economic diplomacy works because of people. And the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is in the people business. We are making the connections that are helping solve the business problems of today and tomorrow, both abroad and in the United States.

Take, for example, Ange Noelle Muco of Burundi and American Erica Hall, chief impact officer of the Akola Project, an international fashion design company with a flagship store in Dallas, Texas. On a recent State Department exchange for female entrepreneurs, the two women shared the story of how they connected their two supply chains at a critical time, benefiting both of their businesses. Ange and her fellow international businesswomen were in Dallas on an International Visitor Leadership Program, “Alumni as Economic Multipliers.” All of the participants had previously been on an exchange and were returning to the United States to make new connections. They met with U.S. companies in Dallas and several other U.S. cities, sharing best practices with American colleagues.

“I think we can be really self-focused if we don’t expose ourselves to things that are different, and ideas that are different, and people that are different,” says American Stephanie Giddens of Vickery Trading, which hires refugee women to assist with making their clothing line. “Until you get to know people, until they become your friends, and you do business with them, that makes all the difference in the world,” says American Valerie Freeman, CEO of the Imprimus Group, also of Dallas. Both Stephanie and Valerie took time from their schedules to meet with the international women.

Ange and the women in her group join thousands of State Department exchange participants who return home with new ideas after meeting with Americans across our great country. However, there is another story that is less often told—but as important—regarding how exchange programs also help American companies, like those of Erica, Stephanie and Valerie.

The U.S. National Security Strategy lays out four pillars, including the need to promote American prosperity. The strategy states that to succeed in this 21st-century geopolitical competition, America must lead in research, technology and innovation. And one way that American companies are achieving this goal is through connections made on exchange programs.

Take Mike Matesic from Idea Foundry in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who participated in the State Department’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative reverse exchange program for Americans who host international YLAI participants. After completing his nine-day visit in Santiago, Chile, he told us: “We have identified several potential partners which we are following up with to discuss collaboration. This will support the transfer of innovations and talent between Santiago and Pittsburgh, in both directions.”

The economic benefit to Americans is also felt when participants come to the United States from other countries. On our Community Solutions program, Abdulsalam Mohammed of Ghana partnered with his host supervisor, Michelle Wilson from Global Ties in Akron, Ohio. Together they created the Accra-Akron Partnership Board, engaging the mayors of both cities to increase fair trade and collaborate to boost businesses in both cities.

One of the most powerful statements about exchange programs comes from Susan Cohig of the National Hockey League, who tells us that the espnW Global Sports Mentoring Program has helped her organization rethink their business challenges on a more global scale and take advantage of new opportunities. “It’s helped make us better as an organization,” she says. Her mentee Olga Dolinina returned to Ukraine to start “Break the Ice,” which works with kids from war-torn areas to provide the support and training they need to succeed and contribute to society.

Each year 40,000 State Department-sponsored participants and more than 300,000 private sector sponsored participants, who are overseen by the State Department on programs like Camp Counselor and Summer Work Travel, bring direct economic benefits to the American people, while contributing to our nation’s security. Well over 90 percent of ECA’s appropriation is spent in the United States or invested directly in American citizens or American organizations.

"Acquiring the skills to work in the global economy is enhanced through foreign language learning and exposure to foreign cultures and professional opportunities abroad."

We could not do the work we do without organizations like Global Ties, with their network of 100 organizations serving all 50 states. Mostly comprised of volunteers, these citizen diplomats make connections in their communities with businesses and organizations, then connect them to international participants. And I am proud that ECA is expanding our pool of U.S. private sector partners. These partners range from professionals who share their specialized skills with foreign exchange participants, to schools and universities hosting educational exchanges and businesses that host foreign professionals who, in the process, contribute to Americans’ international expertise and networks.

We expand economic prosperity by increasing the capability of Americans to operate internationally and furthering the reach of U.S. businesses and institutions. Acquiring the skills to work in the global economy is enhanced through foreign language learning and exposure to foreign cultures and professional opportunities abroad.

Thousands of businesses across this country tell us they are stronger because of exchange participants. Seasonal businesses in destinations like Ocean City, Maryland, and Santa Cruz, California, tell us that they would not be open without exchange participants on Summer Work Travel, who can work in late spring or early fall when American students are in school.

These participants bring new perspectives to American businesses, while also allowing these businesses to stay open longer, after American students return to school.To increase global competitiveness, ECA helps to internationalize workplaces and U.S. campuses, supporting professionals and foreign students who study and work alongside Americans. State Department exchange programs are making a real difference in our economy and in our global economic and trade relationships—one exchange participant at a time.

Marie Royce was sworn in as assistant secretary of State for educational and cultural affairs in March 2018, following unanimous Senate confirmation. She is a businesswoman and former professor.   

Ilir Zherka

As published on the StudyTravel Magazine of EnglishUSA on December 5, 2018.

This week, we interview Ilir Zherka of the Alliance for International Exchange about the group's activities, useful resources for agents, and how it marked its 25th anniversary.

Firstly, can you tell us a little about the Alliance for International Exchange?

The Alliance for International Exchange serves as the only collective public policy voice of the exchange community, by promoting the growth and impact of exchange programs and the effectiveness of its members, by engaging in advocacy, providing member development opportunities, and by building public awareness of the power of exchange.

What has the Alliance been up to in the last year?

In the last year, the Alliance has done a lot in terms of advocacy, research, and communications.

The Alliance introduced its first-ever Exchange Week in the District, which enables our members and other stakeholders to reinforce the impact of exchange programs at the state and district levels.

We engaged in a wide-range of policy issues by: sharing our views regarding negative changes to the definition of “unlawful presence;” submitting a comment letter on an increase in SEVP fees; engaging with ECA and Consular Affairs on visa denials; opposing restrictions on recruiting and program fees in Romania; and submitting an Amicus Brief to the First Circuit Court in support of the Au Pair program.

We also commissioned and released a major, comprehensive report on the Intern and Trainee programs by EurekaFacts.

We reported last year about reported proposed cuts to exchange programs and the feared impact of these. Have those fears subsided? Was is the current state of play?

Since the proposed cuts were reported last year, we facilitated bipartisan congressional support for privately-funded exchange programs. While the threat seems to have receded thus far, we are aware that there is attention being paid by some to these programs with an eye toward greater restrictions and cuts. We are, therefore, continuing our intensified educational and advocacy efforts, and we suggest others do the same.

What are the benefits to international students and to the US itself of exchange programs?

International students benefit the US in several different ways or areas. They support the U.S. national security because more than 200 countries and territories visit the U.S. from countries critical to U.S. foreign policy. International students also strengthen the U.S. economy. In fact, in the 2017-2018 academic year, international students contributed $39 billion to the U.S. economy and supported over 455,000 jobs.

Our readership is predominantly comprised of agents and students recruitment companies, and of course, many of these are promoting J-1 programmes. Do you have any engagement with agents around the world, or any resources that might be useful for agencies?

We have several resources that might be useful for agencies on the “Impact and Resources” page of our website. On this page, we have gathered all the information on the benefits of exchange programs: such as, our Exchanges impact one-pager; state fact sheets with information by state; our Intern/Trainee and Summer Work Travel reports; and the latest numbers from Department of State. They might also benefit from reviewing our Advocacy page, which includes suggestions for engaging elected officials that should apply to their countries, too.

In terms of wider international student recruitment, the last couple of years have been challenging for educators in the US, particularly IEPs. Has that trend impacted on the exchange sector at all?

According to the Open Doors Report, new student enrollments fell by 6.6 per cent in 2017. This trend, however, started in 2015. That decline is certainly having an impact.

I gather you have recently market your 25th anniversary. How did you celebrate this?

Our 25th Anniversary Gala dinner hosted 256 attendees, including 105 Alliance members and supporters, 11 government officials, and five previous Alliance staff. It was truly an evening to remember.

What does the Alliance have planned for coming months?

There is a continuing need to educate policy makers and the general American public about the power of exchange programs to increase greater mutual understanding between peoples. We’ll be doing that through an upcoming report on the Camp Counselor program, visits to congressional offices in Washington, DC and locally, as well as other programs. People abroad can figure out how to get involved by subscribing to our Weekly Digest through our website.

Ilir Zherka is the Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

Open Doors Report Shows 1.5 percent Increase in International Students Coming to the U.S.

The 2018 Open Doors Report shows a 1.5% increase in the number of international students coming to the U.S for higher education: 1,094,792 international students enrolled in United States higher education institutions in 2017/18 compared to 1,078,822 students in 2016/17.

The Open Doors report further shows that international students continue to have a significant positive impact on the U.S. economy. According to the Department of Commerce, these students contributed more than $42.4 billion to the U.S. economy in 2017, in contrast to $39 billion in 2016.

“International students studying alongside Americans are a tremendous asset to the United States,” said Marie Royce, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs. “We need to develop leaders in all fields who can take on our toughest challenges. We need people who can find solutions that keep us secure and make us more prosperous. We want to send a message that international education makes us stronger as a country,” the report reads.

Learn more about the report here.

New NAFSA Economic Impact Analysis: International students contribute $39 Billion to the U.S Economy

New data recently released by NAFSA: Association of International Educators indicate that the more than one million international students studying at U.S. colleges and universities during the 2017-18 academic year contributed $39 billion to the U.S. economy, while at the same time supporting more than 450,622 jobs. These numbers represent a 1.2% increase in job support and creation and a 5.8% increase in dollars contributed to the economy compared to the previous academic year.

NAFSA’s full report shows the benefits of international students in the United States, including enrollment data, economic contributions, and jobs supported. Particularly for jobs supported, the report finds that for every seven international students enrolled, three U.S. jobs are created.

Esther D. Brimmer, NAFSA Executive Director and CEO, stated the following about the new data:

“The data continue to demonstrate that international students and scholars are a tremendous asset to our nation, contributing billions of dollars to our economy, thus generating hundreds of thousands of jobs in our local communities. And this is in addition to the immeasurable academic, security and cultural value these students bring. International students and scholars create jobs, drive innovation and serve as America’s best ambassadors and allies."

NAFSA conducts an annual state-by-state and congressional district analysis of the economic contributions of international students and their families to the U.S. economy. This year, once again 10 states, including California, New York, Massachusetts, Texas and Pennsylvania, broke the $1 billion mark in contributions from international students. These states received a large contribution to their economy from spending by international students on living expenses, tuition and fees. The analysis also shows that with every seven enrolled international students, three U.S. jobs are created by spending in higher education, accommodation, dining, retail, transportation, telecommunications and health insurance.

State- and district-specific information can be accessed here.

Speaking up for International Exchange Programs

As published on the Global Ties U.S. website on October 29, 2018.

By Sue Yang, Senior Director for External Relations, Alliance for International Exchange

Advocacy is at the nexus of policy, people, and exchanges. If you've ever wondered how policymakers decide on issues in Washington, DC, or how organizations can best engage in advocacy, here are three tips to get started.

To engage in advocacy, organizations should:

Be a voice for international exchange programs.

A vital part of how elected officials decide on issues is understanding how they affect their constituents, district, and state. The more policymakers understand the issues, the better informed they can be in making policy decisions.

While it may seem like there are plenty of voices already out there advocating on behalf of your issues, every voice counts. The more voices there are in support of these important exchange programs, the stronger the message and its impact. So make your voice heard.

For the international exchange community, there are many policy and budgetary challenges. In recent years, the Administration budget requests for U.S. Department of State's educational and cultural exchange programs have been decreasing – most recently, the Fiscal Year 2019 budget request was more than a 75% reduction from the Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level.

Thankfully, due to strong bipartisan Congressional support, funding for international exchange programs has been robust in recent years. An important factor for that strong support is the advocacy efforts by the Alliance for International Exchange and members of the international exchange community.

Be a resource.
Educate and inform your elected officials on exchange program issues. Be informative, concise, and clear. For example, avoid acronyms and other industry jargon without explaining what they mean. Discuss only what you know – you can always follow up with more information. This is important, as you want to be viewed as a credible and informed voice. If you are a knowledgeable resource for how international exchange issues affect the district and state, then your message will have a stronger impact.

Build a relationship.
Reach out to the offices of your Members of Congress, as well as other elected public officials at the state and local levels. Contact their district and state offices to request meetings with staff to discuss your cause. Get to know the staff as they advise the elected officials. Reach out to state and local officials as well. Engage with those who directly represent you – elected officials prioritize hearing from their constituents.

Work with other community leaders (such as business leaders, local associations, or civic activists) to strengthen and broaden the network supporting international exchange programs. These meetings are opportunities to build and sustain a professional relationship with policymakers and policy influencers. As with all relationships, it takes time to build one so be proactive and have a long-term perspective.

As you engage in advocacy efforts, maintaining a unified message on international exchange programs is essential to reinforcing their key role in our public diplomacy efforts. Specifically:

• Exchange programs support our national security and foreign policy interests.

• Exchange programs strengthen the U.S. economy.

• Exchange programs increase mutual understanding.

Introducing the 2018 Mccarry leadership awardees!

Mallory carpentier, senior regional coordinator, geovisions

Molly mccarthy, employment relations manager, ciee

mandy sheriff, alumni relations manager, afs-usa

Response to “Shortchanged” Report Regarding the Au Pair Cultural Exchange Program

The International Labor Recruitment Working Group (“ILR”) recently issued a report entitled, “Shortchanged: The Big Business Behind the Low Wage J-1 Au Pair Program” (the “Report”). The Report is replete with unfounded allegations and inaccuracies. It ignores the positive feedback the vast majority of au pairs provide regarding their experience, while attempting to discredit the important cultural exchange benefits the program provides.  Among other things:

• Based upon interviews of only 16 current and former au pairs, out of a pool of approximately 150,000 just in the last ten years of this thirty-year old program, the Report claims that au pairs are unhappy with the program. According to a recent State Department presentation, 88% of au pairs reported in exit surveys that they were satisfied with the Au Pair Program, while only 4% report that they were dissatisfied. (The balance did not answer.) Many au pairs even extend their participation, voluntarily, beyond their first year.

• The Report fails to recognize important oversight provided by the United States Department of State. For example, the Report ignores the fact that sponsors submit detailed, annual reports prepared by independent auditors that help ensure sponsors’ compliance with applicable regulations.

• The Report wrongly suggests that au pairs have no recourse if a host family wants them to perform more work than is permitted. In fact, each au pair is assigned a local representative who, by regulatory requirement, must reside near the au pair and must make monthly personal contact. Au pairs have other resources as well including the entire full time staff of each program sponsor. Additional support includes the State Department’s toll-free “J-1 Visa Emergency Helpline” telephone number, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week as well an au pair-specific email to report any concerns. On the Exchange Visitor section of the State Department’s own website, they provide the contact information for the National Human Trafficking Resource Center and the Trafficking in Persons and Worker Exploitation Task Force.

• The Report repeats the disputed assertion that Sponsors have somehow improperly limited au pair stipends paid by host families to $4.35 per hour. At most, the sponsors passed along the minimum stipend amount calculated by the State Department and issued publicly in State Department notices, which is an amount that families are free to exceed. Moreover, the Report fails to acknowledge the many other benefits – monetary and otherwise -- that these young cultural exchange visitors experience when they are invited to enjoy American life and culture and are welcomed as members of the family into the homes and lives of their hosts.

Over more than three decades, the Au Pair Program has allowed hundreds of thousands of young persons from around the world to come to the United States, live with a family, improve their English language skills, and be immersed in American culture. Even if a limited number of host families and au pairs do not follow the rules, the sponsors and the State Department work diligently to find those violations and address them. Any violation of the program regulations is unacceptable and must be addressed appropriately.  However, the allegations described in these limited cases were made anonymously and sponsors have not been given the opportunity to be made aware of who they are so that they can be properly addressed. The Report ignores the support resources that are available to au pairs, the commitment to addressing concerns by the program sponsors as well as the transformative cultural exchange benefits of the program, and offers a jaundiced presentation that is neither objective or accurate.

EurekaFacts Camp Counselor Report

We are thrilled to announce the release of the EurekaFacts Camp Counselor Report.

The report found that the Camp Counselor program positively impacts the United States by strengthening our national security and supporting our economy. Not only did 76% of participants develop a more positive view of American people, they also contributed over $59 million dollars to the U.S. economy during their stay.

You can access the full report here.

Professional Exchanges Support U.S. Public Diplomacy Goals

Young professionals around the world are striving to compete in today’s global economy. As individuals have become more interconnected with their counterparts across the world, international training has also become a highly valued skill. American policymakers are actively working to leverage a desire for training as a way to establish stronger business, political, and social ties with countries around the world. The tool? Intern and Trainee programs. Designated by the U.S. Department of State, these programs serve these key goals while also affording international professionals valuable skills, expertise, and cultural insights.

Over 35,000 international Intern and Trainee participants came to the United States in 2017. While Interns are current university students or recent graduates, Trainees are individuals with five or more years of experience or recent graduates with a year or more of experience. Both of these programs afford international participants the opportunity to temporarily live in the United States while taking part in professional training with host organizations and companies.

While Intern and Trainee participants strive to acquire necessary skills, the United States gains a unique opportunity to advance its public diplomacy goals. A recent study by EurekaFacts, Intern and Trainee Exchange Program 2018 Review Report, found that the U.S. is exporting its image, values, and best practices with each participant’s return home. A staggering 95% of participants have a positive experience in the U.S. during their stay, 75% develop a more positive opinion of Americans, and 73% develop a more positive opinion of the U.S. in general. Comparable programs also benefit American workers. 71% of host organizations offer equivalent Intern or Trainee program opportunities for Americans.

The United States also gains economically. The study found that in 2017 alone, Interns and Trainees contributed over $662 million during their average eight-month stay. Individually, program participants have a significant economic impact on American local communities, contributing approximately $2,000 each month on expenses like housing, food, entertainment, and travel.

Host organizations, comprised of a range of American-based companies, benefit as well. In fact, EurekaFacts found that 85% of hosts surveyed said the Intern and Trainee programs are important to their business. One reason is that they allow current staff to broaden their perspectives through exposure to different cultures. 75% of host organizations agreed that this phenomenon regularly occurs in the workplace. Additionally, 60% of host organizations said they would experience a negative impact without the programs.

Professionally-based exchanges are increasingly integral to companies as the new relationships formed through these programs lead to overseas partnerships. The study affirms these partnerships will continue to multiply: 70% of participants report a more positive opinion about the American way of doing business and about American companies in general.

Intern and Trainee programs illustrate a clear “win-win” for both the United States and participants. As valuable public diplomacy tools supporting U.S. national security, these programs simultaneously help American businesses and strengthen our economy.

Ilir Zherka is Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

Laine Cavanaugh, Alliance Senior Manager, contributed to this article.

SWT: Just the Facts on Cultural Exchange

Ilir Zherka, Contributor

Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange

Just the Facts on Cultural Exchange

09/14/2017 08:32 am ET Updated Sep 14, 2017

 A recent study by Pew found that the United State’s favorability rating globally hovers below 50 percent, with a sharp distrust of this administration among some of our closest allies in Europe and Asia. As we consider the implications these findings might have on policies ranging from defense to disaster relief to trade and investment, we are puzzled why the White House would be considering major changes to or the complete elimination of a proven cultural visitor exchange program that costs the taxpayer nothing. 

Started by the State Department in 1961, the J1 Exchange Visitor Program— which includes Summer Work Travel, Camp Counselor, Intern and Trainee and Au Pair programs—has brought students and others from overseas to the U.S. to learn English, study, and gain exposure to American culture. One of the ways in which this is done is through temporary, seasonal work—largely in the tourism and hospitality industries during peak travel seasons where exposure to the language and culture in a real-life setting enhances the student’s experience and sends them back to their home countries with some new skills and, importantly, perspectives. 

Despite the incredible diplomatic benefits of the Exchange Visitor Program, a small group in the White House has deemed it a threat to the American workforce. As a result, they have linked it to the broader Buy American, Hire American (BAHA) Executive Order efforts currently underway. These efforts look to cut back on immigration programs that some see as undercutting American jobs. But the Exchange Visitor Program is not an immigration program or a jobs program—it’s a cultural exchange program. Young people come here for short periods of time, typically four months or less, to experience American life first-hand and then return to their home countries. As the international government and business leaders of tomorrow, putting it in the BAHA cross hairs is simply misguided and short-sighted. 

A recent study conducted by Eureka Facts shows why. Led by Public Affairs Research Director Alec Ulasevich, PhD, Malinda Rhone, PhD, and Principal Jorge Restrepo, the study found that the Summer Work Travel (SWT) program, one of the five programs being targeted as part of BAHA, delivers significant benefits in terms of public diplomacy and the U.S. economy. Critically, it shows that SWT students help U.S. businesses meet their seasonal labor shortages in areas and times when American workers are not available, particularly in the “shoulder seasons” of early spring and late fall when young Americans are typically in school. The analysis also found that SWT participants do not – as some in the administration argue – displace local workers. In fact, one quarter of surveyed employers indicated that without the presence of SWT students to complement their American workforce, they would not be able to operate at capacity during their peak season. Employers recruitment through advertisements, at job fairs, visits to college campuses, social media, and other methods. But these efforts often are not enough. Some employers report that they could be forced to lay off full-time staff or even close their doors without the seasonal SWT supplement. 

The study also finds the SWT program helps to keep local, seasonal economies strong. Last year, participants in the program contributed more than $500 million to the U.S. economy via money they spent during their shorts stays in the country. Exchange visitors, furthermore, earn the exact same wage as their counterparts. Costs to employers can actually be greater for these employees due to program, travel and other expenditures required by the State Department.To suggest that the SWT in any way threatens the American worker and economy, according to this study, is simply inaccurate. Couple that with proven diplomatic benefits, and this is a program that should be held up as a model, not one targeted for elimination. For example, 91 percent of the SWT participants surveyed chose to take part in the program because of the cultural exchange opportunity, rather than to make money or learn work skills. 76 percent return to their home countries with a higher overall regard for the U.S., and three in four say their opinions of American people became more positive after their time here. In the spirit of the original legislation that established these Exchange Visitor programs, the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, participants leave the program with greater understanding of the United States while making lasting friendships with Americans they met. 

Many in Congress also strongly disagree with the inclusion of Exchange Visitors in BAHA. In fact, Members of Congress from both the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives urged Secretary Tillerson to oppose such an action. Governors and business owners across the country have also weighed in with their opposition. 

The tradition of cultural exchange is part of the fabric of our democracy. It has played an important role in the broader global diplomatic efforts of the U.S. for more than 50 years. So just the facts, please. These young people are not threats to the American worker or the economy. They are the world’s future employers, diplomats, leaders, and innovators whose short time in our country contributes to greater global camaraderie, understanding, and respect.

Link to article on Huffington Post.

This is a test National News Article

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Administration’s FY 2019 ECA Budget Would Hurt U.S. Diplomacy

Washington, DC (February 12, 2018) – The Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 budget released today by the Administration proposes a steep 75 percent cut to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Specifically, the FY19 request of $159 million is a significant reduction from ECA’s actual budget of $634.1 million in FY17. Last year, the Administration recommended a 55 percent cut to ECA. Although a long-term FY18 budget has not been finalized, Congress recognized the importance of ECA and increased its funding for FY17.

“The proposed cuts to ECA’s budget recommended by the Administration, if enacted, would greatly harm our nation’s public diplomacy efforts and, ultimately, our national security and economy,” said Ilir Zherka, Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange.

Educational and cultural exchange programs have been a critical component of our national security policy since the end of World War II. Often described as part of our “soft power” strategy, these programs bring people from around the world to the United States for short-term, full immersion stays that range from weeks to an entire academic year. The State Department reports that 1 in 3 current world leaders have been on an exchange program in the United States. In another Department study, 92 percent of participants from Muslim majority countries reported having a more favorable view of the United States. Over 90 percent of ECA’s budget is spent in the United States or by Americans administering grants which fund travel, lodging, and meals at U.S. businesses. The grants are administered by American nonprofit organizations that employee thousands of people in the United States and enrich the lives of millions across the country.

“Congress has consistently demonstrated a strong, bipartisan commitment to exchange programs,” said Ilir Zherka, Executive Director. “We call on Congress to recommit our country to people-to-people diplomacy by providing strong funding for ECA.”

As the voice of international exchange, the Alliance promotes the growth and impact of exchange programs and the effectiveness of its members by engaging in advocacy, providing member development opportunities, and building public awareness of the power of exchange

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Alliance Congratulates Marie Royce on Nomination to serve as Assistant Secretary for ECA at the Department of State

Washington, DC – Ilir Zherka, Executive Director of the Alliance for International Exchange, issued the following statement regarding the nomination of Marie Royce to serve as Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Exchange (ECA):

“The Alliance for International Exchange congratulates Ms. Marie Royce on the announcement of President Donald J. Trump’s intent to nominate her to be Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs."

“This is a central role in furthering people-to-people diplomacy. The exchange programs the Department funds and oversees strengthen our economy and support our national security by increasing mutual understanding between Americans and people around the world."

“Ms. Royce brings a strong understanding of international exchange programs. She has served on the Advisory Committee on International Communications and Information Policy at the Department of State, on the Board of Trustees of Meridian International Center, and as a former educator and university professor. We look forward to her confirmation process and to continuing our work with the Department of State in supporting U.S. foreign policy interests.”

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The Alliance for International Exchange is an association dedicated to promoting the growth and impact of exchange programs. Since 1993, it serves as the collective public policy voice for now over 90 nongovernmental organizations comprising the international educational and cultural exchange community in the United States. The Alliance increases awareness of the impact of people-to-people diplomacy.

Introducing the 2017 McCarry Leadership Awardees!

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Leslie Corn, Senior Director, Cultural Exchange Network Corporation (CENET)What began as an Office Assistant job out of college turned into a challenging, zigzagging journey of 7 years. Working with people from around the globe, understanding cultural differences, and striving for a kinder, more humane world, has become Ms. Corn’s drive as she works, travels, and develops her acumen in this ever-important field. Hers has not been an Ivy League tract, but a Midwestern plodding, a learning and re-learning by doing, by failing, by learning some more, by overcoming, and, finally, by developing a deep driving empathy for those who are embarking on a journey. This empathy led her to create Culture in the Community, a program focused primarily on underfunded schools, with a mission to teach students the beauty of differences. After wearing many hats at CENET, Ms. Corn became Senior Director. What years of dedication in the exchange community has taught Ms. Corn is the wonderful truth that there is always much more to learn.

"The Annual Meeting is a great opportunity to learn and connect within the exchange community. Despite being competitors, it’s understood that we’re much stronger together than we are as individual organizations. J. William Fulbright once said that exchanges "can turn nations into people, contributing as no other form of communication can to the humanizing of international relations." It was a privilege to gather in D.C. and to endeavor as a community to do just that-- humanize international relations and advocate for programs that inspire a better world."

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Leslie Costa, CEO & Founder, The International Student CompanyFor the last six years, Leslie Costa has been the custodian for connecting students, graduates and young professionals, seeking to enrich their own career prospects, with valuable work experience opportunities throughout the United States. As a true cross cultural advocate and a recognized leadership expert, Ms. Costa can be found speaking about the benefits of getting out of comfort zone by engaging in cultural exchange experience at, corporate events, webinars at local and international universities. With the support of U.S. Department of State, Ms. Costa has recently founded the first international exchanges conference in the U.S.:  International Exchange Summit (I.E. Summit) that connects awesome J-1 participants from all across the globe with local and international leaders across industries based in Florida. Ms. Costa holds a Master’s Degree in Corporate Finance from Group INSEEC in Paris, France.

"After receiving this award, I feel even more energized and motivated to advocate and fully embrace the responsibility of ensuring that we continue to foster mutual understanding between nations.I left the Annual Meeting with the confidence that what we do is important and highly beneficial for the world, I am positive that we will overcome the current challenges on the J-1 Exchange Visitor Programs, with the right determination and resilience.”

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Janice Fox, Northeast Regional Account Manager, Intrax Work TravelJanice Fox is the Northeast Regional Account Manager for Intrax Work Travel, based near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Growing up in a military family, Ms. Fox became accustomed to travel and cultural exchange at an early age, which later became two of her passions. Ms. Fox had her first cultural exchange experience when she studied abroad in Rabat, Morocco. After obtaining her Bachelor’s degree in French, she spent a year teaching at English First in Changchun, China and, later, returned to Morocco as an English and Foreign Language Teacher at Amideast in Casablanca. The care and compassion her host communities demonstrated during her time overseas led Ms. Fox to pursue a career in the field of cultural exchange and inspired her to focus on enhancing the experiences of exchange visitors in the United States. In her current capacity, as a regional account manager at Intrax, Ms. Fox identifies ideal host employers and communities, and collaborates with local organizations to improve transportation and safety resources available to Summer Work Travel participants. Prior to her current position, she worked as an operations assistant and field support coordinator.

"Attending the annual meeting provided focus on long and short-term goals for myself and for the larger cultural exchange community. The panels and workshops offered excellent insight into the work we’ve already accomplished together and where we can go next. We all realize it won’t quite be “business as usual” for the next couple of years, and I gained valuable tools to apply to both advocacy and day-to-day operations work that will be critical in ensuring the future of our exchange programs. After listening to and speaking with many experienced and passionate colleagues, I left the meeting feeling reassured about our strength as an industry and community."

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Lisa George, Manager of Latin American Youth Programs, World LearningLisa George is a youth development professional, with ten years of experience in international exchange programs and training. She is an AFS-USA Returnee (Costa Rica) and longtime AFS-USA volunteer. She is a previous member of the AFS-USA National Council (2012-15; 2016-17) where she acted from a national perspective to make decisions for the good of the organization, while representing volunteer needs, views and opinions to the AFS-USA executive management team and the Board of Directors. Ms. George has studied, lived and worked in Costa Rica, Italy and Turkey. As Manager of Latin American Youth Programs at World Learning, she currently manages, implements and overseas international cultural exchange programs for youth participants funded by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassies worldwide. In this role she also oversees the Youth Ambassadors Consortium, composed of Georgetown University, SUNY Plattsburgh and Amigos de las Américas. Ms. George recieved an MA from SIT Graduate Institute in Brattleboro, Vermont.

"Attending this year’s Alliance meeting was a wonderful opportunity to step back from the piece of International Exchange that I engage with on a daily basis and view our field from a broader angle. I appreciated the space to interact with IE colleagues and peers, while participating in relevant and relatable sessions. The benefits of likeminded organizations coming together to take part in these important dialogues is immeasurable; I left the event feeling reenergized, inspired and hopefully for the future of International Education in the United States."