Our J-1 exchange visitors appreciate every form of support they are offered during their time away from home, family and friends! Community Support Groups (CSGs) provide support to Summer Work Travel (SWT) exchange visitors by offering a safe and positive experience for those exchange visitors who temporarily live and work in the U.S. in their local areas. That gives SWT participants a great sense of comfort and belonging. Additionally, community groups works towards identifying issues and concerns in their area, find solutions and raise awareness of the community and businesses regarding the Summer Work Travel program. With the help and support of CSGs, Summer Work Travel participants enjoy a safe and fun environment.
On a larger scale, international visitors take that home and talk about it to their family and peers which informs other parts of the world about key American values like diversity, equality, and tolerance. This all contributes to building strong bridges of understanding between the U.S. and other countries. . the U.S. culture of understanding, tolerance
Kathleen Mears, Greenheart Employer Relations, who’s a leader in founding and working with CSGs, shares:
“Community leaders, Chambers of Commerce, host organizations, volunteers, and sponsors focus their outreach efforts for Summer Work and Travel participants, with the purpose of creating a safe and fun environment for international participants who come to work in your community. Engagement of the Department of Transportation, Housing Association, Social Security Administration, Bank Representatives, Medical Representatives and other Community Support Groups.”
It is noteworthy that Community Support Groups (CSGs) are critical to host organizations and their continuous efforts to provide good health, safety, welfare, and a positive experience for our J-1 exchange visitors. The Summer Work and Travel Program is designed to build mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through education and cultural exchanges that support the development of peaceful international relations.
CSGs work hand in hand with hosts throughout the winter and summer seasons to ensure that both our host organizations and J-1 participants have a wonderful program experience.
NEWS!
Community Support Groups are coming back to pre-pandemic meetings across America! Also, the Community Support Group Summit next summer will take place in Myrtle Beach, SC.
To find a CSG in your area please go to BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel Community Support Groups
To learn more about Greenheart’s Work and Travel program visit GreenheartExchange.org.
If you are a business with seasonal staffing needs and a keen desire to build diversity and cultural exchange efforts in your community, please visit HirewithGreenheart.org to learn more about hosting international students in the Greenheart Exchange Work and Travel program.