American Families for Cultural Exchange

About

American Families for Cultural Exchange is a coalition led by Cultural Care Au Pair, an official sponsor of the U.S. State Department-regulated au pair program for over 30 years, which champions the federal program that bridges cultural divides by offering immersive and enriching exchange experiences to families across the U.S. and citizens of other countries.

An au pair is a young person from abroad who lives with an American family on a legal J-1 cultural exchange visa for up to two years, receiving a weekly stipend, room and board, and educational opportunities in return for providing limited childcare support to their host family. For decades, the au pair program has been an important form of ‘kitchen table diplomacy’ – breaking down cultural barriers and helping young adults become better global citizens.

Protecting and expanding the federal au pair program will increase access to one-of-a-kind cultural exchange experiences and provide families with a flexible and affordable childcare solution.

American families, including military families, first responders, healthcare professions, single parents, and more, value the flexible childcare and cultural exchange opportunities that the au pair program provides.

For nearly forty years, the U.S. State Department-regulated federal au pair program has created impactful connections across borders and cultures, while achieving the diplomacy goals outlined by the program’s founders. This exchange experience attracts young people from diverse backgrounds worldwide who are welcomed into the homes of thousands of American families.

“The simple purpose of the exchange program…is to erode the culturally rooted mistrust that sets nations against one another. The exchange program is not a panacea but an avenue of hope….”

– Senator J. William Fulbright

The Value of Cultural Exchange

International exchange strengthens the national economy.

During the 2022-23 academic year, international students contributed $40.1 billion to the U.S. economy and supported more than 368,000 American jobs. (National Association for Foreign Student Affairs)

International exchange strengthens the local economy.

Nearly three in five U.S.-based citizen diplomats believe that international exchanges improve the ability of the local community to attract international investment. (Global Ties U.S.)

International exchange strengthens our national security.

Notable exchange alumni include 721 current and former heads of foreign governments, 87 Nobel Prize winners, 75 current and former representatives to the United Nations, and 39 current and former heads of international organizations. (U.S. Department of State)

International exchange improves the American workforce.

Many jobs in today’s market require skills that can be gained studying abroad. In 2019, more than 31 million job openings required skills learned while studying abroad, including communication, leadership, and problem solving. (National Association for Foreign Student Affairs)

International exchange creates future leaders.

Political leaders on both sides of the aisle recognize the benefits of international exchange in preparing young Americans to be leaders on the global stage. (Alliance for International Exchange)

Affiliated Coalition Members