Joan McGrath joins International Cultural Exchange in Lewes

International Cultural Exchange Services welcomes Joan E. McGrath as a new local coordinator.

“I recently moved to Lewes, the community where I, my siblings and my own kids had spent our summers growing up,” said McGrath. “It's so lovely to be close to the beach and all the activities of Delmarva. My lifelong passion has been international travel. I spent a semester of college in Salzburg, Austria, lived in London for nearly a year, and hosted a student from Germany. We made lifelong ties with her and her extended family, and have been there twice since that experience. In the USA, my career life was centered in Washington, D.C. I travel to New York City as often as possible, and I love visiting Philadelphia, just a short train ride away. I am an avid reader, a struggling fiction writer, a genealogist, and a lover of movies and theater. I also enjoy nature activities such as kayaking and nature trail walks. I'm excited to work with exchange youth not only because I love learning about their cultures, but also because I believe in the program as a way to build better world peace. These teens will grow into leadership roles in their communities, and the bonds they forge here will culminate in greater work unity and understanding.”

McGrath said she is excited for this new opportunity to work with international high school students and the local families that host them. She feels that having exchange students in local schools and communities increases mutual understanding and improves relationships between countries. She will be working with families and schools in Lewes and surrounding areas.

Currently, McGrath is looking for host families for the 2020-21 school year. Exchange students live as a member of the host family, not a guest or boarder. They participate in family activities, follow host family rules and help with chores. Students have their own medical insurance and spending money to cover all personal expenses. Host families provide room and board, and loving parental guidance to the student. As the local coordinator, McGrath is available to answer questions, give advice and provide general support to students and host families throughout the experience.

For more information about hosting or working with ICES, contact McGrath at jmcgrath@icesusa.org or go to www.www.icesusa.org.

ICES is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting a peaceful world by increasing international awareness and understanding through cultural sharing experiences.