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The Freedom Support Act (FSA) Secondary School Initiative, also known as the Bradley Bill, was signed by President Bush on October 25, 1992. The purpose of the program was to bridge the distance between young people of the United States and the twelve newly independent states (NIS) of the former Soviet Union.
The program encourages the exchange of ideas, values, and experiences among youth and leads to greater cultural awareness and appreciation, exposing young scholars to democracy, free market economy, civil society, and community service. The long term goal of the program is to prepare students to emerge as future leaders who will help lead and strengthen the newly democratic societies in their own nations. AYUSA works closely with American Councils ACTR-ACCELS to provide an innovative exchange experience and a high level of support to all of our FLEX students. As with all AYUSA students, FLEX students complete pre-departure, post-arrival, and re-entry orientations to prepare for cultural and emotional adjustments. A percentage of the students participate in an intensive four-week English language course prior to arrival in their host communities. All FLEX students take part in regular enhancement meetings and one spring trip within the U.S. designed to provide a broader view of the communities and culture of the United States. Students can also be selected to participate in a Civic Education Workshop and a Computer Training of Trainers Seminar. 
To find out more about the FLEX program through partner organizations and helpful resources, please visit the following websites: U.S. Department of State, FLEX Program American Councils, ACTR-ACCELS You may also contact the FLEX program manager by emailing rdavis@ayusa.org |
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In 1997, the program was renamed the Freedom Support Act/Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX). The FLEX Program provides full scholarships for select high school students from the NIS to spend an academic year in the United States. AYUSA places the largest number of FLEX students in the U.S.