We will work with you and the visitor to try to solve any issues that may arise. If for some reason, you are not pleased with the hosting experience, we will work to find a new home host for your guest.
Home Hosting
What about background checks?
A background check is not required to host an adult visitor. However, background checks are mandatory for any youth hosting opportunity.
What happens afterwards?
We would love to hear about your home/dinner hosting experience. We welcome any thoughts and suggestions that would enhance future home hospitalities. We encourage you to share stories and photos that will inspire others to support SDDC. Please feel welcomed and encouraged to volunteer again. We are always thrilled to have you!
What if the visitors don’t speak English?
An interpreter will be assigned to accompany the visitors if their language ability requires it.
Can I invite my friends and family to join our dinner?
Sure! If you have some family, friends, or colleagues who speak the visitors’ language and/or have any experience in visitors’ culture, and/or have similar professional interests, the visitors often enjoy the opportunity to network and develop friendships.
How do you assign international visitors to hosts?
Assignments are often made based on host availability. SDDC will match you up based on your preferences and background information of our visitors.
I have a pet. Is this an issue?
This is generally not the issue. We will inform you if your guests have an allergy or are uncomfortable around pets. It is extremely important that you let us know if you have any pets so we can avoid any conflicts that may arise.
What about food allergies or dietary restrictions?
SDDC will inform you prior to the dinner about any food allergies or dietary restrictions that your guests may have. While this information is usually correct, it is always a good idea to ask your guests before sitting down for dinner about any allergies or restrictions that they may have.
Will I be compensated for hosting?
SDDC is unable to compensate dinner and home hosts. However, we can provide a letter of donation to home hosts, for tax purposes.
What about alcohol?
This is at your discretion. You are welcome to offer alcohol, but this is not required. Also, be mindful of different views about alcohol in different regions of the world and their comfort levels being around alcohol.
