Non-profit is looking for families to host students from around the world

A non-profit organization is looking for families to house students from around the globe in Yuma and the Imperial County.

Clarissa Foschy is one of the many students that CETUSA has housed in the United States, during her time as an exchange student.

Foschy is from Brazil and said that her experience with her host family changed her life.

“Everything is new so having a host family there is amazing, to feel home,” explained Foschy.

Nancy Crews, her host mom, feels the same way.

Nancy and Clarissa both said that the melting pot of cultures taught them about themselves.

“I didn’t realize that I would have such a connection to someone from a different country. You really don’t think they’re just like us, but some are,” said Crews.

Clarissa credited the new culture for showing her how to react with different people and giving her a taste of the American way of life.

Clarissa is not the first student Nancy has opened her home to. She has been hosting students from all over the world for 10 years.

CETUSA thinks that families from Yuma and Imperial Counties are just what they need to house their students.

“You have to have a background check, just for the protection of the student. The ages have to add up to 50. Obviously, have a home and an extra bedroom for the child and just the willingness to volunteer,” said Neal Baker, CETUSA representative.

It was the willingness to volunteer that allowed Clarissa and Nancy to connect.

“Just by hosting we’re making a difference in our family, in the student and their family, and everybody around you,” said Crews.

If you would like more information on CETUSA or would like to host a student, you can email Neal Baker at hostforeignstudent@outlook.com.