The World Link international exchange program is once again bringing outstanding young leaders from around the globe to Perry this fall. These students are scheduled to arrive in mid to late August, but each student must be matched with a host family by Aug 1.
World Link students represent a select group of high-achieving youth chosen through a rigorous, three-phase merit-based selection process. These students reflect the diverse ethnic, social, religious, and economic makeup of their home countries. Their mission is to share their culture with Americans while learning about “the real America” to take back home as future leaders and cultural ambassadors.
They also participate in school clubs, sports, and local events, all while building friendships and fostering global understanding.
Karen Fitzgerald, World Link’s local coordinator, told the Perry School Board July 14 that Perry has played an important role in this mission for years.
“Perry has long been a welcoming community for our students, who leave with wonderful memories and a deep respect for small-town American life. Families with high school students are encouraged to apply,” Fitzgerald said. “Families with younger children—elementary or middle school—often make especially great hosts. The kids bond quickly and it becomes a joyful, enriching experience for everyone.”
Perry residents Dirk and Carol Cavanaugh have hosted six exchange students over the years. They say the experience has been consistently rewarding.
“First of all, it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about other cultures,” said Carol Cavanaugh. “Each time we’ve hosted, it’s been heartwarming and meaningful. These students come eager to learn and make their families proud — and as host parents, you find yourself feeling proud of them, too. There are challenges, just like with any teenager, but World Link does a great job preparing everyone. Plus, they love cooking meals from their home country — delicious!”
Trista Cohea and Chris Cohea also speak highly of their hosting experience.
“We loved hosting. It gave us a new family member,” said Trista Cohea. “We will always think of Justine as our ‘daughter.’ She brought joy and a new culture into our home. We had talked about hosting for a while and felt the timing was finally right. It can be stressful at times, but building trust and a relationship made the experience incredibly rewarding. World Link gave us a gift we’ll never forget.”
World Link students come with their own spending money and health insurance. Host families simply provide a welcoming home, meals and a seat at the family table. Students are placed in cluster groups within Iowa and nearby states in order to ensure strong support and community connections.
To learn more or ask questions, families are invited to attend a World Link informational meeting on Tuesday, July 22 at 5 p.m. at the DMACC VanKirk Career Academy in Perry. Interested individuals can also reach out to Alli Johnson at 515-991-2930 or alliworldlink@gmail.com.
