States’ 4-H partners with Labo, LEX, and UTrek to offer Japanese youth the chance to stay with an American host family for one month. Participants in this program are both boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 16.

Labo was founded in 1966 with the purpose of building international understanding and awareness among Japanese children through language. Over 60,000 children are involved in Labo activities. States’ 4-H has been partnering with Labo to provide youth with international exchange experiences since 1972.

LEX, the Institute for Language, Experience, Experiment, and Exchange was founded in Japan in 1981. The organization conducts international exchanges between its member organizations all across the world.

UTrek was founded in 1983 with the unique philosophy of building cultural awareness through home stays and building environmental awareness through outdoor activity camps. All UTrek visiting students will take place in a 3 day to 1 week camp in cooperation with 4-H extension offices in each state.

How Can I Apply to Host?
The application window to host a student from Japan in 2017 is open! Click on the Apply today button below to find out if your state is participating in this summer’s Japan Short Term Summer Host Program. For information on other programs please visit our Short Term Summer Programs page.