- Be a Changemaker
Transform the world by transforming perspectives. Empower YFU participants and your local community to embrace and honor cultural diversity.
Why Volunteer?
- Build Community
Become part of a worldwide network of individuals dedicated to making a difference, just like you. Take on the role of a catalyst for change in your community.
- Craft Your Identity
Cultivate invaluable cross-cultural competencies and discover your role as a global citizen, leader, and catalyst for change within your community.
- Shape The Future
Guide diverse teams locally or internationally and advocate for inclusive societies to foster sustainable development.
Get Ready To Make A Difference With YFU!
Joining YFU as a volunteer or LC (Local Coordinator) means stepping into a world of boundless energy, empathy, and excitement. Our volunteers are the heart and soul of YFU, guiding students through transformative experiences that shape them into more confident and worldly individuals. Unlike other exchange programs, YFU is driven purely by passion. We do what we do because we love it, and that passion shines through in everything we do.
With YFU, you have the flexibility to volunteer on your own terms. Whether you’re looking for a few hours a week or a more immersive experience, there’s a volunteer role that fits your schedule and interests perfectly. As a YFU volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting students, families, and fellow volunteers alike. From interviewing prospective exchange students to sharing the excitement of cultural exchange with your local community, every task contributes to a larger mission of creating global understanding and connection.
When you join YFU, you’re not just signing up for a volunteer opportunity – you’re becoming part of a legacy of impact. Your involvement will touch the lives of teenagers, families, and communities around the world, leaving a lasting impression that transcends borders and boundaries. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with YFU!
How to Become a YFU Volunteer
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Submit Your Application
In order to prioritize the safety and well-being of YFU students, all volunteers are required to apply. Our application procedure is comprehensive and equips volunteers with the necessary tools for success. Feeling unsure? Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
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Connect With YFU Volunteers
Learn about our organization and the volunteer experience with YFU. Let’s collaborate to determine the most suitable role for you, considering your availability and aspirations for learning and contribution.
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Get Prepared
Undergo foundational training to become a YFU Volunteer, which includes essential modules, ensuring you’re equipped for a rewarding and impactful volunteer role.
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Embark On Your Adventure
No matter your role with YFU, you’re bound to have an incredible experience. You’ll engage with fascinating students, forge friendships across the globe, collaborate with dedicated volunteers, and acquire intercultural and lifelong skills that will enrich your journey indefinitely.
Volunteer Positions
Local Coordinator
Time Commitment: Dependent on availability and type of activity
Experience: Previous recruitment or sales experience, or working with youth is preferred but not required.
Think of being a Local Coordinator as more than just a volunteer role – it’s a side hustle that makes a real difference in the world. For each student you place with a host family and support during their time in the United States, you can earn up to $1300. It’s a rewarding way to contribute to international exchange while also benefiting financially. Join us in shaping the futures of students from around the globe as a YFU Local Coordinator!
Current Openings: Positions are available in most areas of the US.
Activity Coordinator
Time Commitment: Dependent on availability and type of activity
Experience: No previous experience required
Coordinators plan social and enrichment activities that provide international students with an opportunity to extend their social networks, create a local community, and enhance their overall exchange experience. Coordinators should plan activities throughout the placement year (August-June). Assistance will be provided by your Community Manager.
Current Openings: Positions are available in most areas of the US.
Community Event Coordinator
Time Commitment: dependent on availability and number/type of local events
Experience: No previous experience required
Community Event Coordinators work in their surrounding areas to find relevant events and activities aimed at marketing YFU’s programs and promoting cultural exchange and international understanding. Community Event Coordinators are responsible for securing booth spaces and managing all aspects of the booth setup and operation, including logistics, promotional materials, and volunteer staffing. They play a crucial role in furthering YFU’s mission to promote intercultural understanding by seeking new participants. Assistance will be provided by your Community Manager and marketing materials will be provided by YFU.
Current Openings: Positions are available in most areas of the US.
Mediation Assistance Coordinator
Time Commitment: Dependent on number of issues requiring mediation
Experience: Previous experience with student/family mediation preferred, but not required
The Mediation Assistance Coordinator assists with mediation that occurs locally. This role does not replace the Local Coordinator during the mediation; the Mediation Assistance Coordinator assists the Local Coordinator before, during, and after the mediation process. This assistance includes coaching and preparation prior to the mediation, being present (either in person or by phone) during the mediation, and providing feedback to the Local Coordinator and/or YFU staff after the mediation.
Current Openings: Two Mediation Assistance Coordinators are needed in each of the following states: MI, OH, and TX.
Orientation Coordinator
Time Commitment: Preparation time varies, 7-8 hours per in-person orientation, three times per year
Experience: Previous involvement with YFU orientations preferred, but not required
Coordinators work with their Community Manager to establish local, in-person orientations. This includes securing a location, recruiting facilitators, producing needed materials, and planning logistics for the day, including meals. Coordinators can also act as a facilitator. Based on program length, students will need to attend three orientations throughout their program: Post-Arrival, Mid-Year, and Re-Entry. Though some orientations can be facilitated concurrently, several orientation dates might be required throughout the year. Typical time frames for orientations are September/October, January/February, and April/May.
Current Openings: Positions are available in most areas of the US.
Orientation Facilitator
Time Commitment: 7-8 hours per in-person orientation, three times per year
Experience: Previous orientation facilitation preferred, but not required
Description: Facilitators will lead discussions and activities based on YFU USA’s well-established orientation curriculum for international students, host families, and sometimes study abroad students. As a facilitator, you are meant to guide participants, prompt discussion, and be a first-level resource. Typical timeframes for orientations are September/October, January/February, and April/May. Curriculum training will be provided.
Current Openings: Positions are available in most areas of the US.
School Liaison
Time Commitment: Dependent on availability and type of events, but requires maintaining communications with schools
Experience: No previous experience required
Liaisons act as the main YFU USA contact for schools in their local area. They help build a relationship with the schools, organize presentations about hosting and study abroad opportunities, and increase YFU USA’s overall presence in school activities/events. Liaisons are the face of YFU USA for their local schools and work with their Community Manager to stay informed about hosting leads and school enrollment, especially during placement season. Marketing materials will be provided.
Current Openings: YFU is looking for a minimum of 4-5 School Liaisons per state.
YFU School & Event Presenter
Time Commitment: Dependent on availability and type of events
Experience: No previous experience required
Program presenters are the face of YFU USA in their greater community. They will work with their Community Manager to identify local events where YFU USA can set up presentations to promote YFU’s mission, including school board meetings, classrooms, PTA meetings, club meetings, etc. Marketing materials will be provided.
Current Openings: YFU is looking for a minimum of 4-5 School & Event Presenters per state.
