AFS-USA Domestic Programs

Exchange That Starts at Home

For nearly 80 years, AFS-USA has worked to build a more peaceful world by connecting people across cultures and perspectives. Intercultural learning is about relationships – not geography.

Beginning in 2026, AFS-USA is expanding its impact through domestic programs that foster understanding, dialogue, and connection in the United States, while continuing to strengthen our international exchange mission. These initiatives respond to growing social polarization by creating spaces for meaningful engagement and shared learning – helping participants build bridges and discover common ground.

Summer 2026 Pilot Programs

In summer 2026, AFS-USA will pilot three exciting one-week domestic programs for U.S. youth. Each experience integrates AFS’s educational approach – reflection, dialogue, identity awareness, and cultural agility – into dynamic, place-based learning.

Pathfinder: NextGen Careers

June 22-29, 2026
Hosted at Miami University (Ohio)
Students explore emerging fields such as quantum physics, artificial intelligence, technology, and entrepreneurship – linking their interests to real-world career pathways while strengthening skills that are essential for success in an interconnected world, such as collaboration and problem-solving.

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Lewis and Clark: Then and Now

July 12-19, 2026
Pacific Northwest / Oregon
Commemorating the legacy of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, this program retraces key elements of the journey while engaging with contemporary communities. Participants examine how history continues to shape identities and perspectives, fostering critical reflection and dialogue.

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The Table We Share: Food and Culture

July 26 – August 2, 2026
Chicago
Through culinary exploration, community engagement, and guided dialogue, students discover the cultural traditions that shape neighborhoods and experiences – recognizing how shared meals and stories can build understanding and common ground. These initiatives reflect the AFS approach and the impact of our programs: opportunities for meaningful dialogue and relationship-building that encourage constructive engagement, shared learning, and a deeper appreciation of our common humanity.

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Information Sessions

Learn more about AFS-USA’s new Domestic Programs by watching this recorded information session! You can also schedule a meeting with AFS-USA staff if you’d like to speak with someone one-on-one. We can also be reached at [email protected].

Watch the Recording

The AFS Approach - At Home

These programs bring AFS’s proven educational model into U.S. communities:

Facilitated dialogue across differences
Identity awareness and reflection
Cultural agility development
Community-based experiential learning

Participants become part of a shared learning community – building empathy, resilience, and meaningful relationships across regions, backgrounds, and beliefs.

Because when people take time to truly know one another, they discover our shared humanity, and it changes everything.

Get Started

Eligible students must create a Jotform account to view and submit an application. Get started using the link below! Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

Start an Application