If you’ve ever wanted to experience the world without leaving your neighborhood, now’s your chance.
Right here in the Collinsville-Triad area, International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) is changing lives—both for international high school students and the local families who welcome them. As a nationally accredited nonprofit organization, ICES promotes global understanding and cultural exchange by connecting students from across the globe with American host families.
What Is ICES?
Founded in 1991, International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) was created to promote cross-cultural awareness through youth exchange. The organization is recognized by the U.S. Department of State to manage the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program for high school students.
Through its trusted network of local coordinators—like Tisha Daech, who serves families and schools right here in the Collinsville-Triad community—ICES places high school students from over 40 countries into U.S. public schools and homes for one or two semesters.
What Does Hosting a Student Involve?
Hosting a student means welcoming them as a member of your family. The students are between 15 and 18 years old and have been carefully screened for their academics, behavior, and readiness for the experience.
As a host family, your responsibilities are simple:
- Provide a bed, meals, and a safe, welcoming environment
- Treat the student as part of your family
- Help them get to and from school and activities
- Support their involvement in community and cultural experiences
Students arrive with their own spending money and health insurance. There is no financial compensation for hosting—this is a volunteer-based program built on generosity and connection.
“It’s like gaining another family member. Many host families stay in touch with their students for years—or even visit them abroad” says local coordinator Tisha Daech.
From around the world to Collinsville and Troy.
ICES students come from a wide range of countries across Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond. Each student brings their own interests, passions, and goals—some love sports, others are into music, robotics, or volunteering.
How the Program Works
The ICES placement process is personal and thoughtful. Here’s what to expect:
- Apply Online
Start by submitting a host family application at icesusa.org. - In-Home Interview
Your local coordinator will schedule a visit to ensure your home is safe and welcoming. They’ll also take photos (including your backyard) and walk you through the next steps. - Matching Process
You’ll browse student profiles and choose someone who fits well with your family’s lifestyle. Matching is done carefully, based on shared values, hobbies, and household dynamics. - School Approval
Your local school—such as Collinsville or Triad—approves the placement. - Arrival Day!
Your student arrives in August (or January for spring semester) and begins their exchange adventure in America.
Placements are for 5 or 10 months, depending on the program.
Why Host?
“You can’t put a price tag on the impact of hosting. You’re shaping the next generation of global citizens—and they’ll remember your kindness forever” says Tisha
Hosting an exchange student offers countless benefits beyond cultural enrichment. According to ICES, hosting can:
- Build lifelong friendships across continents
- Teach your children tolerance, empathy, and global awareness
- Bring new traditions, foods, and languages into your home
- Offer you a chance to visit your student’s home country in the future
“It’s an amazing way to experience another culture without ever leaving the Triad area, and if you ever want to travel, you already know someone abroad!”,” says Tisha.