I'd like to become a Friendship Partner or attend an orientation 😀
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Friendship Partner Program (also called Cville Host Program)
We are looking for volunteers to be matched with international students as Friendship Partners. These volunteers build authentic relationships with international students and naturally get chances to share their faith.
Students do not live with their hosts. Hosts help their students get settled into their own housing arrangements when they first arrive, and provide suggestions and guidance to help students get accustomed to their new environment. This is a great opportunity and a practical way to reach out to internationals.
What's an ISI Friendship Partner?
An ISI Friendship Partner is a friend to an international student. Adjusting to a whole new world is a nightmare for many. An unpleasant and lonely stay will leave a lasting impression. But there are many simple things you can do to make a student's experiences in America something to cherish.
What's the commitment?
Meet with an ISI staff person for brief training. Meet with your student about once per month. Email or call your student about once per week. The Friendship Partner commitment lasts one year, and many friendship partners choose to keep in touch for years to come.
Students do not live with their hosts. Hosts help their students get settled into their own housing arrangements when they first arrive, and provide suggestions and guidance to help students get accustomed to their new environment. This is a great opportunity and a practical way to reach out to internationals.
What's an ISI Friendship Partner?
An ISI Friendship Partner is a friend to an international student. Adjusting to a whole new world is a nightmare for many. An unpleasant and lonely stay will leave a lasting impression. But there are many simple things you can do to make a student's experiences in America something to cherish.
- Invite them to dinner
- Take them to a sports event
- Celebrate holidays together
- Take them shopping
- Help them get oriented to Charlottesville
- Invite them to church
- Pray for your friend
What's the commitment?
Meet with an ISI staff person for brief training. Meet with your student about once per month. Email or call your student about once per week. The Friendship Partner commitment lasts one year, and many friendship partners choose to keep in touch for years to come.