Farm and Ranchstay Program

WISE® offers a unique opportunity to experience the wide open spaces of rural America. Whether you prefer the tall trees of the Pacific Northwest or wide open plains of the Midwest, WISE® Farmstay and Ranchstay has something for you.

While on a Farm or Ranchstay program, the international participant spends approximately 4 to 6 weeks with a family and participates in day-to-day activities which make up American farm and ranch life.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Many different social activities take place in rural farm or ranch communities. On weekends the family might attend state or county fairs or livestock shows. The host family may decide to take the participant with them on an excursion to nearby lakes, mountains or the city. But because summer and fall are busy times for agricultural families and the land and the animals need daily care, this is not guaranteed in the experience and should not be expected. Participants will be treated as a member of the family. Teenagers in rural areas often have the same interests as teenagers who live in the city. Living with an American family in this type of setting facilitates the learning of the language at a much faster pace. The setting is relaxed and comfortable.

WISE® has access to all types of farms and ranches. Participants may choose from dairy farms, cattle ranches, crop farms, horse ranches, or hobby farms. All types of farms or ranches are not available in all areas.

WISE® FARMSTAY FAMILIES
Host families are open-minded people who enjoy learning about cultures and appreciate the unique opportunity hosting gives their family. They provide the student with room and board and (in cooperation with the WISE® Area Representative) the transportation to and from the airport.

ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible to participate you must be between the ages of 16 and 25. You must posses basic English communication skills. Previous farm or ranch experience is not required, only the desire and willingness to learn and join in the day-to-day chores which make up life on a farm or ranch.

 

For more information, contact WISE®.