ASSE International Student Exchange Programs is looking for local families to host boys and girls between the ages of 15 to 18 from a variety of countries, including Norway, Denmark, Spain, Italy, and Japan.

“ASSE students come with an enthusiasm to practice their English and experience American culture — food, sports, shopping and more,” said a release from ASSE International (formerly American Scandinavian Student Exchange), a not-for-profit organization. “They also love to share their own culture and language with their host families. Host families welcome these students into their family, not as a guest, but as a family member, giving both the students and families a rich cultural experience.”

ASSE students have pocket money for personal expenses and full health, accident, and liability insurance. ASSE students are academically selected into the program, and host families may choose their student from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries, and personal interests.

To become a host family or to find out how to become involved with ASSE, call the ASSE Eastern Regional Office at 1-800-677-2773 or go to www.host.asse.com to begin a host family application.

ASSE, founded by the Swedish National Department of Education, is officially designated as an exchange visitor program by the United States Department of State.