Community Spotlight

vOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: RÉKA CSIKÓS

For some people, an exchange year becomes a cherished memory. For Réka, it became the beginning of a lifelong commitment to YFU.After spending her exchange year in Chile in 2015/16, Réka returned to Hungary with a desire to stay involved. Over the past ten years, she has become an integral part of the YFU Hungary community, contributing with generosity, dedication, and seemingly endless energy. Her commitment has helped strengthen both the organization and the people who make it possible.

Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: JUNTACHOT AND JARUENSA

For every student who walks through their door, this host couple provides far more than just a place to stay. They step up as real parents, guiding, teaching, coaching, and supporting their students through every high and low of the exchange experience. Whether sharing local traditions, exploring cultural nuances, or simply cooking dinner together, they generously share every aspect of their lives.

Read the full story here.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: RÉKA CSIKÓS

From a transformative exchange year in Chile to a decade of leadership, Réka has become a defining force within YFU Hungary. Volunteering in every capacity locally and internationally, her energy and dedication have helped shape the organization's daily operations and long-term vision.

Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: VALLEJOS GARCÍA

The Vallejos García family has been part of YFU Paraguay since 2019, opening both their home and their hearts to young people from different parts of the world. Over the years, they have welcomed both community service volunteers and high school exchange students, always supporting them with great care and kindness.

Read the full story here.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: VIRGINIA WARNER

For more than 30 years, Virginia has been a driving force behind YFU USA, supporting international students and also helping hundreds of American students begin their own exchange journeys. Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: THE SU-ÜNSAL FAMILY

What began with sending a son on exchange evolved into a lasting commitment to YFU's mission. Throughout the years, the Su-Ünsal family has created a welcoming space where countless exchange students have felt at home. Read the full story here.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: ANTONINO ZAVATTERO

Antonino has been a key volunteer in YFU Argentina since his exchange in 2017. Through his leadership, training, and involvement in major initiatives and events, he has helped shape and mentor much of the organization’s volunteer community, leaving a lasting impact on YFU Argentina. Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: BEA AND ANNIKA

Bea and Annika welcomed their first exchange student, Štefánia from Slovakia, and quickly discovered that hosting is about connection, openness, and shared experiences. Through a year of laughter, learning, and mutual growth, they built a strong bond that turned a planned semester into a full school year. Read the full story here.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: ELINA TORMA

Elina’s journey witH YFU began as an exchange student in Japan and has grown into years of dedicated involvement across the global network. Now active with YFU Spain, she brings creativity, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she does. Known for her positive energy and constant support for others, Elina represents the spirit of YFU through her commitment to people and connection across cultures. Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: THE LOBOSOK FAMILY

With five children of their own, the Lobosok family from YFU Estonia have opened their home to seven exchange students, creating a space where connections continue long after the exchange year ends. Known for their openness and constant willingness to support others, they are a trusted and valued part of the YFU community. Their home reflects what exchange is all about: welcoming, sharing, and building lasting relationships across cultures. Read the full story here.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: RUTH SCHWEIGMANN

From her small village in North-West Germany, Ruth has made a remarkable impact across YFU at every level. What truly defines Ruth is her spirit. Guided by her motto, “Always think in Royal Purple,” she brings passion, warmth, and dedication to everything she does. Ruth’s influence is lasting and far-reaching. Read the full story here.

HOST FAMILY OF THE MONTH: THE KORBULY FAMILY

What began with hosting one exchange student soon grew into a family tradition of inviting the world into their home. Since 2019, the Korbuly family from Hungary has embraced cultural exchange with openness, warmth, and curiosity. They remind us that hosting is not just about opening your home, but opening your world. Read the full story here.