Who are we?

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"[Section name="What is YFU?"]"

Youth For Understanding (YFU) is a volunteer-driven global nonprofit organization, fueled by the passion of individuals, comprising 55+ YFU branches spread across six continents. As a leader in intercultural exchanges and educational programs for over 60 years, YFU has impacted over 270,000 students - and their host families, schools, and networks - as well as over 70,000 volunteers.

Since inception, we have been united by the belief that full cultural immersion is an effective means to acquire the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly multicultural, competitive global society. YFU will be with you every step of the way, from application to return, helping you stay connected with the international community long after you've returned home. We create a safe, supportive environment where you can explore different cultures and gain better understanding.

Cultural immersion leaves lasting impressions that ripple out to others around you. Our intercultural exchange program is unique in offering you the journey of a lifetime: an adventure that brings out the best in people and enables you to forge lifelong connections that will alter your global perspective! This is how YFU creates positive global change!

"[Section name="Our Office"]"

The Office of YFU Flanders plays a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community through its diverse range of functions. We actively support volunteers by providing essential guidance and resources, ensuring they have the necessary support to carry out their roles effectively. Simultaneously, we work towards increasing the visibility and recognition of YFU Flanders, both locally and internationally, attracting more participants and supporters to our cause.

Through various outreach efforts, we inform students about the diverse exchange and educational programs available through YFU Flanders, empowering them to explore and pursue exciting opportunities for personal growth and cultural exchange. Additionally, we maintain regular communication and provide ongoing support to host families, ensuring that both students and hosts have a positive and enriching experience throughout the exchange process.

Advocating for the importance of cultural exchange and youth development is another significant aspect of our role. We actively engage in international networking activities, forging partnerships and collaborations with organizations and stakeholders across borders to enhance our impact and reach. Moreover, we actively engage with young people through various programs, events, and initiatives aimed at fostering intercultural understanding, leadership development, and global citizenship among youth.

Ultimately, our office serves as a hub for building and nurturing a strong and connected community of volunteers, students, host families, alumni, and supporters who share a passion for cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Through these key functions, the Office of YFU Flanders advances our mission of promoting peace, understanding, and friendship through international exchange and youth empowerment.

Where in Flanders are we located?

Our organisation is active in the entire region of Flanders. We have both volunteers and participants in the smallest village and the biggest city, In a coastal town or in a hamlet surrounded by woods. In short YFU is everywhere. Our office and the location where we house our volunteers is in Mechelen. A small but bustling city in the heart of Flanders.

"[Section name="Vision and Mission"]"

YFU advances intercultural understanding, life-long learning, global competencies, mutual respect, and social responsibility through transformational educational exchanges for generations of youth, families, and communities, supported by dedicated volunteers and professional staff.

What we envision for the future: YFU envisions generations of empowered global citizens for a more peaceful and sustainable world.

Our values

The principles by which we stand:

Learning: For Life
Volunteering:
Engaged and Dedicated
Caring:
Personal and People-Oriented
Valuing Diversity:
Inclusive and Fair
Promoting:
Quality, Transparency, Sustainability, Cooperating in International Solidarity