NWC News Desk

NWC seeks friendship families for four international students

Posted October 14, 2013
By NWC News Desk

POWELL, Wyo. - Interested in learning more about Malaysia, Russia, Vietnam or Hong Kong? Northwest College is looking for individuals or families to befriend students from these four countries through its Friendship Family Program.

The program connects local residents with international students to provide support and friendship. Enough community members have volunteered to befriend all but four of the college’s 70 international students this year.

Lodging is not a component of the program. Instead, the goal is to give students opportunities to get off campus occasionally to build friendships with community members. These relationships can help students increase their understanding of the United States and in particular, Wyoming.

“There are no time or activity requirements for participating as a Friendship Family,” NWC’s Intercultural Program Manager Emelee Volden said. “We have people who host students for a monthly meal. We also have families/individuals who invite their students to join family vacations and holidays. The amount of involvement and commitment is not determined by NWC, but is determined between the family and the student.”

To volunteer as an NWC Friendship Family, or for more information, email or call Emelee Volden at 307-754-6429.