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Portland and Beyond: City Streets to Sacred Grounds is a dynamic, one-week intercultural adventure for U.S. high school students exploring the history, spirit, and lasting impact of Lewis and Clark-era trade and exploration in the Pacific Northwest.

Blending hands-on discovery with real-world connection, students will explore the vibrant living cultures of Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. Through local homestays, guided excursions, group dialogue, and shared reflections, participants will experience the region’s story from multiple perspectives—engaging with Indigenous communities, environmental stewards, local residents, and fellow student explorers.

Things to Know
Students will consider questions such as:

  • Whose stories are told?
  • How do historical narratives shape identity and power?
  • How does the past influence today’s communities and environment?
  • Homestays and guided experiences will foster intercultural understanding while building students’ global competence, empathy, and leadership skills.

Scholarships & Aid

We believe in the power of intercultural experiences and the potential of our students! That’s why AFS is committed to making studying abroad more attainable. To be considered, you must complete the scholarship application by April 1, 2027, and the full application by May 1, 2027.

Eligibility

Graduates Eligible? No, high school graduates are not eligible to participate.
Age Range (at program start) 15 years and 0 months to 17 years and 12 months
Language Skills No language requirement
Country of Residence Applicants must be residents of the U.S.

If you will need accommodations for a diagnosis or disability to participate in this program, such as severe allergies, strict dietary restrictions, or a requirement for psychotropic medications, please get in touch with a member of the Innovation Team to discuss options.

Portland & Beyond – Applicants

Applicants Must:

  • Demonstrate curiosity about experiencing history beyond the textbook.
  • Have a desire to strengthen power skills, specifically civil discourse, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.
  • Be willing to provide post-program feedback.
Portland & Beyond – Accommodations

Accommodations

During your time in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll live with a carefully selected host family who’s excited to share their home with you! Outside of excursions and daily activities, your homestay experience will be a unique opportunity to get to know people local to the Portland area and foster a sense of community with your host family.

Domestic Programs Info Sessions

Information Sessions

Learn more about AFS-USA’s new Domestic Programs by attending an 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].

Join an Info Session

Sample Program Itinerary

Activities are subject to change.

  • Arrival at Portland International Airport (PDX)
  • Welcome to the Pacific Northwest: Orientation & program overview
  • Introduction to program guides, journaling & reflection
  • Host family meet & greet activity

What's Included

  • Host family accommodations
  • Meals
  • Ground transportation (arrival/departure and program excursions)
  • All program activities and related workshops
  • Entrance fees for excursions and events