OLDS — Students, faculty, staff and town residents are invited to participate in Olds College’s second annual Home For the Holidays initiative.
The purpose of the program, running from Dec. 13-Jan. 3, is to help international students, many of whom are a long way from home, have a brighter, more inclusive holiday season.
Through the program, facilitated by Olds College International Student Experience, local residents, faculty and staff are encouraged to host students for a traditional holiday or winter activity.
It’s an opportunity for community members to share their favourite holiday traditions.
Activities can range from a special family dinner, a volunteer event, tobogganing or ice skating, to maybe just a movie marathon by the fire.
These activities can last as long as a few hours, depending on the host's plans.
“We’re thrilled to bring back this initiative after such a positive response last year,” Karen Dancy, director international education and student recruitment at Olds College, said in a prepared statement.
“It’s a wonderful way to foster connection and inclusivity while giving students a meaningful experience during the holiday season.”
Interested hosts can fill out the Become a Host form and students can submit the Join a Host Family form by Dec. 13.
Matches will be made on an ongoing basis and participants will be notified via email with details on how to connect and plan their activities.
Participants are also encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #OCH4TH for a chance at prizes which will be given out via a draw.
