The organization AFS Interculture Canada

Present to the world citizens that are committed to promote fairness and peace.

AFS is an international non-governmental, non-profit, volunteer-based organization that provides opportunities for intercultural learning through international exchange programs aimed at promoting the emergence of a more just and peaceful world.

AFS Interculture Canada is a member of the AFS International Network, which includes more than 55 countries. More than 12,000 young people per year are involved in the AFS experience, for a total of 400,000 participants since 1947. The network has more than 42,000 active volunteers worldwide.

The programs offered by AFS allow participants to open up to the world, to appreciate the cultural differences and universal interests that exist between the different people of the world. AFS believes in the dignity and worth of every human being regardless of nationality or culture. AFS promotes respect for human rights and individual freedoms without distinction of ethnicity, gender, language, religion or social class. AFS Interculture Canada’s activities are based on the values of dignity, respect for differences, peace, tolerance and sensitivity.

The exchange programs offered by AFS aim to increase intercultural skills, which helps to adapt and contributes positively to new cultural environments. Participants and host families have the opportunity to broaden their horizons and learn from each other, while developing their communication skills. They are thus better able to come into contact and interact with people from other cultures, leaving their experience with the necessary preparation to live in a global and diverse society.

In each country, AFS staff members coordinate the programs from the national office. These permanent staff are supported by a volunteer network who carry out tasks ranging from recruitment to support for students and families. AFS relies on a volunteer network and qualified staff in over 55 countries. Volunteers must be trained and supported by AFS staff in each country. The generosity with which they offer their time, effort and dedication is the essence of the organisation. Host families are also volunteers and do not receive any remuneration for hosting your child in their home.

It is our support system for students, through volunteer counsellors, local committee members and staff, that makes our organization one of the best in the world. Our staff is trained to resolve difficult situations and we provide a liaison service to all AFS national offices. All information received at the national office in Canada is passed on immediately to the birth parents.