Virginia 4-H

Future Leaders Exchange program

Virginia 4-H participates in the U.S. State Department sponsored Future Leaders EXchange (FLEX) program, established by the federal government in 1992 in conjunction with 12 New Independent States of the former Soviet Union.

The program was created out of former Senator Bill Bradley's conviction that the best way to ensure long-lasting peace and understanding between the U.S. and the emerging democratic societies of the former Soviet Union is to enable young people from these countries to learn about democracy first hand.

The major goal of FLEX is democracy-building, exposing likely future leaders of these countries to our democratic society and free market economy. Since the original programs inception in 1993, thousands of young citizens from the former Soviet Union have been awarded scholarships to participate in this program. They have returned to their countries with a new enthusiasm and desire to help lead their countries towards a democratic future.

Hosting Program
The program provides American families the opportunity to host a high school student for approximately 10 months. Most students arrive in early August to begin preparation for the school year. During the school year the students live with their host family, attend the local high school, and participate in regular family and school activities. Students return home in May or June.

The responsibilities of the host family include:

  • Providing a home and family atmosphere for the student by treating them like a son/daughter/brother/sister.
  • Providing a room and meals (including school lunches) to the student
  • Assisting with budget planning and financial arrangements. Students are responsible for their own expenses beyond daily meals and family trips.
  • Helping with schoolwork, parent-teacher conferences, selecting classes, school registration etc.
  • Helping to maintain communication between the student, his or her family, and the State Coordinator.

More information is available through: