What are my responsibilities as a host family?
One of the most important responsibilities of a host family is to provide the visitor(-s) an
opportunity to learn about American culture by being with you and your family and participating in your
daily activities (preparing meals, going shopping, or even watching TV!). This is also a wonderful
opportunity to show the many treasures of our community for a first-time visitor (e.g., the Falls of
Ohio, Speed Art Museum, Derby Museum, etc.)
Additionally, host families provide a private room and board to their guest(-s). Our visitors do not
expect luxurious accommodations and will be most appreciative of your hospitality.
LICC gives each participant and the host family detailed public transportation instructions, but if
your home is not near a bus stop, you may need to furnish transportation to professional appointments
and social activities (or to the bus stop closest to your home). Because some cultural activities are
scheduled for evenings and weekends when bus service is not available, it is most helpful when host
families can provide transportation for such events.
Will my guest be in my home all day while I am at work?
Each visitor has a professional program arranged by LICC. Most participants will be visiting their professional counterparts at organizations throughout the area during regular business hours Monday through Friday. You will receive a copy of your visitor's schedule so you will know exactly when he or she will be at your home.
What happens if my guest needs medical treatment?
Each participant has health insurance coverage during the program. You will receive insurance claim forms at the host family orientation. The visitor only needs to pay $25 at the time of first treatment per illness or injury.
Will my guest have spending money?
In addition to any money the participants may bring with them, each visitor receives $25 per day for purchasing lunch, bus tokens, etc. Each visitor also receives a book allowance and a cultural allowance.
For how long will my guest stay with me?
LICC has found that it works best for both the host family and the visitor when the participant stays with the family for at least two weeks or for the entire month of the program.
I am a single adult. Can I still be a host family?
LICC invites any interested single person, couple, or family to consider hosting an international visitor. Many single adults have hosted previous LICC visitors.
How will LICC be helping me throughout my visitor's stay?
Before the visitors arrive, LICC conducts a host family orientation during which families are given detailed biographical information about their guest(-s), visitor schedules, public transportation information, a list of host families participating, a list of LICC staff members and their home phone numbers, and comprehensive host family guidelines. LICC wants this experience to be positive for both the visitor and a host family. LICC staff members are available 24 hours a day to assist families with any situations that may require immediate attention.
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