Youth Exchange & Study Program (YES)

To learn more about the YES program, watch this video chronicling the lives of four YES students and their amazing host families!

History

In 2003, AYUSA was awarded a major grant from the U.S. Department of State to administer an academic year program for students from predominantly Islamic countries. This initiative was a result of Congressional discussions following the events of September 11, 2001, to build bridges of understanding between the United States and countries with significant Muslim populations. From 2003 to the present a total of 3,480 students have participated in the YES program. During the 2009-2010 academic year, over 800 students will participate in the program.

Program Goals

The goal of the YES program is to engage participating youth, their teachers and classmates, and community leaders in an exchange effort that will promote increased understanding and tolerance between cultures. The YES program encourages the exchange of ideas, values, and experiences among young people by exposing these young scholars to leadership belief systems, civil society principles, and community service involvement.

Program Components

AYUSA is working in concert with several partners that together comprise a consortium. AYUSA and the YES program are also proud to partner with Mobility International (MIUSA) to provide exchange opportunities for students with disabilities.

Program enrichment activities include the Arrival Orientation, Re-Entry Orientation, leadership mentoring project, community service, civics education, and diversity training. Monitoring and evaluation is the final essential program component.

Related Links

To find out more about YES program recruiting and other helpful resources, please visit the following websites:

AMIDEAST
iEARN
Mobility International