• has been in existence in the Rock River Valley since 1959.
• gives international students studying in Chicago-area universities the opportunity to live with an American family during the four-day Thanksgiving weekend.
• is coordinated with International House at the University of Chicago.
• includes six communities throughout Illinois that collectively host approximately 200 students.
• is funded primarily by an annual Soup and Sandwich Luncheon.
Schedule of Events During the
Thanksgiving Weekend
• Wednesday Students are brought from
International House in Chicago to the host families by bus.
• Thursday Students enjoy Thanksgiving
Day with their host families.
• Friday Students and host families are
free to spend time together.
• Saturday An evening potluck buffet and
program are planned for the students and host families.
Everyone is encouraged to attend.
• Sunday Students depart for Chicago by
bus at 2pm.
“If I had to summarize in one word, I would say ‘perfect’. My host family was very nice and friendly.”
Thanksgiving guests arrived as strangers and left as
friends.
The bounty of a Thanksgiving dinner is shared with new
friends.
“I had a very friendly host family, and we had an excellent exchange of information in a casual and laid-back atmosphere. I got good insight into the Dixon way of life.”
A Thanksgiving student is warmly welcomed by her host
family.
“My host family made me feel at home and as part of their family. They helped when I didn’t understand and gave me lots of good experiences. In short, I totally enjoyed my home stay in Sterling.”
Thanksgiving students dancing after the International
Buffet on Saturday evening.
“Sooo, you put wire deer in your yard???”