Will there be a welcome to Cleveland this summer for French Students?

I am a great believer in the exciting adventure of meeting new people and having new experiences, especially when it concerns young people.

Travel enriches us and makes us better citizens but I know that not everyone can take the time to travel. So why not invite a traveler right into your living room by welcoming one of ten French boys, three French girl who are waiting anxiously to see if they will have an American home to call their own for three weeks?

I have spent the last 15 years hosting students for three weeks every summer through World Exchange (worldexchange.org) right here in Avon Lake. So it was a no-brainer that when the opportunity presented itself that I began working in the field.

My family and I have enjoyed our many international guests, and my children have benefited greatly from spending time with our students — sharing games, boating, swimming, talking and laughing.

I am very proud that I have helped make many, many international friendships. The problem is that I can only help create these friendships if area families are willing to reach out and participate. I am writing this letter to our community to ask you to pitch in.

With 2 months left to find homes, it’s crunch time.  The sooner you pick your student the more contact you have before they come.  You can email, facebook or even Skpye with them before they arrive.

Sixteen-year-old Agath is a vegertrain,  who loves swimming and yoga, – she is also involved  with relief work in Hiti nad Mali.

Valentin is also 16 likes to swim, share music and going to the movies. He is from a very small town south of Paris and enjoys all foods.

Lucas, who would like to go to school for engineering.  He has been to the USA but never the great lake region which interest him alot.  He loves soccer but is also a fan of basketball and loves Michael Jordan.

In a matter of 2 months, these may not just be names on a page in the newspaper, but true international family friends.

I am determined to find homes for all the students coming from Aug. 1-20. It would make me sad to have to tell them that America is “shut for business” when they so badly want to experience our daily lives.

Please tell your friends and family about this one-of-a-kind opportunity, and consider hosting yourself. Your new French student is looking forward to meeting you.

Please call or email me: Jill Quinn at (440) 653-1564, georgee182@gmail.com.

Jill Quinn

Avon Lake