Social media platforms have allowed people of all ages to make connections around the world. While these connections can be helpful, they are only the starting point. A recent County Extension Council meeting, attended by program volunteers, discussion was focused on applicable ways to engage diverse audiences. For people to become truly connected and immersed they must experience it firsthand. The 4-H International Program and Language Laboratory (LABO) provides opportunities for Japanese youth between the ages of 13 to 16 and American host families such an immersion experience. LABO and the 4-H International Program match Japanese youth with American families with 4-H’ers of the same age range. This program has been offered since the 1970’s and Kenton County 4-H has a tradition of placing youth with our 4-H families.

Recently Kenton County has hosted five youth as well as the LABO Director twice. This year Kenton County supported the international program by promoting it in our county newsletter and making home visits for the state program. Visits are made with potential host families to ensure the safety and compatibility of all involved. Finding appropriate host families is a challenge that Kenton County helped to resolve. The newsletter has been cited by 4-H families as the source of the opportunity.

Once families are approved, they are matched with a youth of the same age and gender as other youth in the household. These families are often our local leadership who recognize the importance of cultural education.