Host Families

Hands of Peace seeks host families who are willing to open their homes and their hearts to a visitor from the Middle East.  Host families should also be willing to drive their visitor to and from the program activities (car pools can usually be arranged!), provide breakfast each day and an occasional lunch or dinner, participate in the activities open to family members, and support their visitor as he/she experiences all that HOP has to offer.  Many host families develop long-lasting, rewarding relationships with their HOP visitor that extend far beyond the short Summer Program!

Host families often have a family member participating in Hands of Peace, however we welcome families of all shapes and sizes!  Some of our host families have had very young children, or older children who have already moved out.  Some couples or singles without children have chosen to host two participants.  Host family applicants must fill out an online application (see the “Applications” menu above) and have an interview with a Hands of Peace staff member or volunteer.  They must also go through background checks and a home visit. 

HOP was an incredible experience for me. I have learned so much about each side. I’ve learned things I was completely clueless about before. I’ve learned there are people out there that want peace and are willing to work together to make it happen. I’ve learned that it is hard for “enemies” to do so but, not impossible.

Noor, 2011 participant