Community Spotlight
Behind every YFU exchange are people who make it happen. In this space, we highlight our volunteers and host families of the month and share their stories, experiences, and contributions to the YFU community.
JULY
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.
JUNE
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.
MAY
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.
APRIL
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.