Here are the steps to apply to host a student for any of the summer inbound programs (Japan & Norway):
Online Host Family Application* (new host families will need to create an account using their email address and a password)
Community Reference Form – new host families will need two non-related references. References will be emailed through the States’ 4-H International online application.
*If you are unable to fill out the Online Host Family Application, please contact us for an alternate application method.
Wisconsin 4-H takes the safety of all international delegates and host families seriously. All adults (individuals 18 years and older, not a current 4-H member) living in the home during the exchange period must enroll as a 4-H volunteer.
Not a current 4-H volunteer? No problem! Our international programs staff, along with your local 4-H Educator, will help you along the process.
4-H Online Volunteer Enrollment Guide
First-Time Volunteers
All adults aged 18 years and over living in the home during the exchange period must complete the following requirements:
- Register via the 4-H Online system (15 minutes)
- Background check (after enrolling through 4-H Online, you will receive an email to initiate the background check)
- Complete initial trainings:
- Mandated Reporter (15 mins., self-paced, online, accessible via 4-H Online) Instructions here.
- Supporting You, Supporting Youth (30-45 mins. , self-paced, online)
- Building Safe Spaces (40 mins., self-paced, online)
- Grow Green Training ( 1.5-2 hrs., offered locally or remotely via Zoom)
Continuing/Returning Volunteers
All adults 18 years of age and over must:
- Complete a background check every 2 years.
- Annually sign the 4-H Enrollment Form, Volunteer Expectations form, and Conditions of Volunteer Service document in 4H Online.
- Complete ongoing virtual and in-person trainings, including:
- Building Safe Spaces (& refresher every 2 years)
- Supporting You, Supporting Youth (30-45 mins. , self-paced, online)
Volunteers returning after over 4 years must complete the above requirements and:
- Grow Green Training
New for Summer 2023:
One adult in each host family must complete the Supporting Youth Mental Health Training. This training has two parts: a 1-hour online training and a 2-hour live training (offered virtually or in-person). More information about this training, and to register for a virtual training, visit symh.wi4h.org.
After submitting the online host family application, WI 4-H International Programs staff will follow-up regarding any incomplete volunteer training components and to schedule an in-home interview with a staff member or trained volunteer.
It is required that all members of the family be present during the interview, which typically takes between 1-2 hours.
Following successful completion of the volunteering training components, a completed background check, and the in-home interview, Wisconsin 4-H International Programs staff will work to match your family (based on age, gender, and interests) with an available international delegate. Completion of the host family application/screening processes does not guarantee an international delegate/chaperone will be placed with your family.
In early summer (June/July), a virtual host family orientation will be held for ALL Wisconsin host families. This orientation is required, as we will be covering important topics including logistics, health and safety, and answer any questions you may have.
Additionally, we intend to offer an additional, optional connection opportunity for host siblings to help them prepare to welcome a new brother/sister from another country into your home.
