During high school, students are often asked what they aspire to become in the future. Whether the answer is engineer, police officer, meteorologist, teacher, or another profession entirely, the question encourages reflection on long-term goals. For many individuals, career aspirations are rooted in the desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. Achieving this, whether on a large or small scale, fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
As Greenheart International celebrates its 40th anniversary, we are reminded of the positive impact we create as global citizens by promoting peace and hope through cultural exchange.
With Greenheart’s first exchange program out of Spain, we found it most fitting to celebrate our 40th all-staff meeting in the very country that kickstarted the essence of Greenheart. Our founders and staff all met in Torremolinos, Spain for a 3-day conference to speak highlights of the organization, where our future is heading, and to hear guidance from the two individuals that started it all, Laura Rose and Emanuel Kuntzelman.
Co-founder, Laura Rose, shares, “As of today, GH has facilitated the cultural exchange experiences of more than 200,000 people from some 100 countries around the world.” She goes on to say that she hopes Greenheart continues to be a light in the world that often sheds darkness and fear of the unknown. “Greenheart is a means to see the world through a lens of connection and collaboration where there are no strangers, only friends whom we have yet to meet.”
Greenheart offers a wide range of programs, including high school exchanges, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, volunteer opportunities, and both teaching and work-abroad programs in the United States and around the world. These programs aim to broaden participants’ global perspectives while cultivating strong community leaders, one experience at a time. Our staff works closely with parents, embassies, community leaders, and participants from across the globe. Truly making our work cultural worldwide, with no limits.
Beyond our stakeholders, Greenheart’s remote workforce reflects a strong global presence. While many staff members are based across the United States, including Illinois, Maine, Iowa, North Carolina, Colorado, Washington, Florida and more, Greenheart International is also represented by team members from countries such as Poland, Bosnia, Bali, and Argentina. This geographic diversity further strengthens our organization’s global perspective and cultural awareness.
“A special moment for me at the 40th anniversary All Staff was being surrounded by colleagues from across the organization and seeing both the history and the future of Greenheart in one room,” shares Lindsay Marsh-Coleman, Associate Director of Career Advanced Programs. She goes on to say that feeling the energy of the organization makes her proud to be a part of the meaningful impact that Greenheart International provides.
Opportunities to gather in an international destination, sharing stories and meals together, are rare and meaningful. Throughout the year, our staff works diligently to secure host organizations for the upcoming Work and Travel season, support educators in the TeachUSA program, and guide our grant and non-grant high school participants as they contribute hundreds of volunteer hours to their host communities. At the same time, thousands of Greenheart domestic and international participants experience new cultures, often for the very first time. These moments define the magic of cultural exchange and fuel the passion that drives our work at Greenheart.
So, what will you be when you grow up? A High School Local Coordinator? An Outreach Manager? A compliance coordinator? A Work and Travel Host Relations Director? A career in cultural exchange offers endless possibilities!
Cheers to 40 years of impact and many more years of stories that celebrate our differences, highlight our shared values, and build lasting friendships across the world.
If you are a business interested in hosting international seasonal staff, please visit HirewithGreenheart.org.
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators to contribute to the learning experience of your students and communities? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host today.
Are you ready to open your heart and home by hosting an international high school student (or two!) Visit HostWithGreenheart.org to meet students for the upcoming season, and apply today to host!