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Program Goals / Purpose

The International YMCA Summer Work & Travel Program was established as an educational exchange program and is recognized by the United States State Department.

The intent of our program is to give university students from around the world, who might otherwise not be able to afford to participate in an exchange program to the United States, the opportunity to experience living and working in the U.S. during their official summer school break.
The goals of the YMCA Summer Work & Travel program are to:
  • Facilitate peace, tolerance and understanding through international exchange, global adventure and intercultural interaction.
  • Provide an opportunity for young people from around the world to challenge themselves through learning to work, grow and live in another country and culture.
  • Enable young people an affordable option to participate in a quality summer work & travel program.
Strengthen the worldwide YMCA movement through providing meaningful and empowering experiences for the next generation of YMCA staff, volunteers and leadership.
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