Volunteers
Share Your Time,
Change the World.


Volunteer with YFU
“I have wanted to be involved since my kids were American Overseas students. I know the importance of an international community and knew that I would love working with international students.”
—Iris Franklin, Volunteer
YFU USA is a volunteer-based organization. For over 60 years, we have successfully carried out our mission thanks to the efforts of thousands of volunteers across the country. Our volunteers use their enthusiasm and skills to become caring YFU USA representatives for teens and families—and literally change the world.
As a YFU USA volunteer, you’ll provide essential support to students, families, and other volunteers in a variety of ways. Whatever your skills, schedule, and interests, there is a YFU USA volunteer opportunity to match!
YFU USA volunteers also interview prospective exchange students and host families, conduct orientations, share information with local communities, and provide administrative support.
Why Volunteer?
YFU USA is a strong and vibrant organization because of the collective efforts of a broad and diverse volunteer base. Our volunteers enable YFU USA to receive more than 2,000 international students and send over 500 American students abroad each year. When you join YFU USA as a volunteer, you become part of one of the most respected programs in international student exchange. Your involvement makes a real difference in the lives of teenagers, families, your local community and the world.
Volunteering with YFU USA is Flexible
At YFU USA, we know your time is valuable. As an organization, we value flexibility in terms of hours and location of your volunteer activities. With many different volunteer roles available, you can find the one that best meets your needs in terms of scheduling and interests.
Who are YFU USA volunteers?
YFU USA volunteers have varied backgrounds, occupations, and ages. Volunteers are professionals, parents, retired, or recently graduated from college. Some volunteers experienced student exchange in their youth—either directly or as part of a host family. Our volunteers share common traits:
- They desire to learn more about the world
- They enjoy helping teenagers and families
- They value making friends with like-minded people
- They demonstrate leadership in problem-solving situations
- They appreciate increased intercultural understanding