Jason Sandford
Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
It’s summer camp time. Press release here:
Xplore USA is hosting an upcoming information session for families who want to learn more about its Asheville-based intercultural summer camp program.
The information session will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 17, at The Hop Ice Cream Cafe, 640 Merrimon Ave. The event is open to the public and will include free ice cream.
Xplore USA’s Summer Camp brings international students to Asheville for a cultural immersion experience through short-term home-stays with local families. Students participate, Monday-Friday, in all-day intercultural camp programming that includes language classes, community service projects and outings to many of the region’s favorite outdoor and recreation attractions.
“Our summer program is a great first step for families who like the idea of hosting an international student, but aren’t quite ready for the commitment of a semester or full school year,” said Sarah Jane Casciato, program manager for Xplore USA. “Our students and their host families often form bonds that last a lifetime.”
Host families provide room and board, local transportation to camp or carpool meet-up, and a loving and supportive environment to the visiting student. Participating families receive a free week of camp for their own child to join in the all-day intercultural programming as well as discounted rates on additional weeks of camp.
Approximately 75 students, ages 13-17, from Italy, Germany and Spain are expected to participate in the 2015 summer camp program, which runs in three sessions from June 27-Aug. 15. Families have the option to host a visiting student for three weeks, in sessions beginning July 3 and July 25; or for four weeks, in a session beginning June 27.
Call (828) 651-8502 or visit www.xploreusa.org for more information on the upcoming information session or the Xplore USA Summer Camp program.
This is a great program! Our family has hosted exchange students in the past with them and have made lifelong friends. I highly recommend it!