Make a Difference
ABC Host Family
Becoming a host family in the A Better Chance (ABC) program offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young scholars. Host families play a pivotal role in providing a nurturing environment that complements the academic experience of students, many of whom are from underrepresented backgrounds.
“Words can never express all that my host family means to me and so I’ll briefly say that I will always carry you in my heart for the rest of my days”
– Caridad, ABC graduate
Open your home, open their future
Host families are essential to the ABC model, offering emotional support and a sense of belonging. They provide students with a second home where they can relax, engage in family activities, and gain insights into community life. This relationship often leads to lasting bonds, as students experience the warmth and dynamics of family life, which can be quite different from their own backgrounds. Read on to discover the incredible experience of becoming a host family, or contact us below to learn more!
The role of a host family
The role of the Host Family is to provide the student emotional support, an opportunity to experience life in the community from a family perspective, academic encouragement to achieve her goals, and advocacy if needed. The Host Family has the opportunity to build a relationship with a Scholar and often these bonds last a lifetime.
A typical experience
As a host family, you will welcome a scholar into your home on designated weekends and Tuesday afternoons/evenings until they return to the dorm at 8:30pm. These visits can involve casual hangouts, such as watching movies or going to the park or simply having a family dinner, or they can also be planned activities or outings that foster connection. The commitment is flexible, allowing families to engage with scholars in ways that suit their lifestyles.
What makes a great host family?
Host families come in all shapes and sizes—whether you have children, are a couple without kids, are empty nesters, or are single, the key is to be loving, accepting, and open to new experiences. Your role is not just to provide shelter but to serve as a mentor and advocate, helping students navigate their academic and personal challenges.
The impact of hosting
By becoming a host family, you contribute significantly to the personal and academic growth of a young Scholar. You help them build confidence, develop new skills, and create a support network that extends beyond the classroom. The experience is equally enriching for host families, as they gain new perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. Hosting a scholar through the A Better Chance program is a rewarding experience that can transform lives—both for the students and the families that welcome them.
Want to learn more?
If you are interested in applying to be a host family and want to learn more, fill out the form below, and someone will contact you. If you've chosen to become a host family, please download the application below, complete it, and return it to us.
Host Family Application
If being a host family sounds like a possibility for your family, please download and complete the host family application. You can return completed applications to hostfamily@andoverabc.org . Thank you!