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Interchange

The Interchange program is a family-centered, two-phase group exchange between two CISV chapters. This program is geared towards youth aged 12-15, but each program involves only two of these ages (e.g., 12/13, 13/14, or 14/15). Delegations usually consist of five males and five females, and one or two adult leaders. The group is equally matched with a group from another chapter or country, and each participant is matched with an interchange partner.

Each delegate lives with the partner's family, and the group as a whole participates in recreational and cultural activities. Often the hosting chapter will hold a “mini-camp”, giving the participants a chance to interact in a typical CISV camp setting. Interchanges may take place over two consecutive summers or a summer/winter split, with typically one month in each chapter. This program involves total immersion into family and social life, and is an excellent way for youth to gain an understanding of daily life in other cultures.

Why is the Interchange unique?

While other CISV programs involve interaction with many different cultures, the interchange is primarily a bilateral program. The focus differs from our other programs in that participants are directly immersed into family life rather than in a camp setting. It is designed for older children who are ready to begin exploring cross-cultural communication in a community environment. Total cultural immersion allows participants to gain new insight into human likeness and interdependence in an increasingly global society. In addition, Interchange provides the greatest opportunity to share the lessons that CISV has to offer because family and neighbourhoods are directly involved in an ongoing manner.

What are the specific aims of the Interchange?

  • To encourage understanding of another culture by living in that culture as a family member;
  • To incorporate these experiences into the daily lives of the participants and their families; and
  • To develop individual and group attitudes consistent with CISV philosophy through group activities.