From Feb. 22 to Mar. 1, 2025, the Courbevoie Youth Orchestra from Paris, France, will be visiting Flint! These talented young musicians will perform alongside the Flint Youth Symphony Orchestra (FYSO) at the International Music Festival Concert on February 28, 2025, at FIM Whiting Auditorium. 

But while they’re here, they will need a safe and comfortable place to stay – that’s where you come in. We’re looking for host families to welcome these students as guests in their homes for eight days. We know it’s a big ask, but hosting is a rewarding experience like no other, offering a unique cultural exchange for everyone involved. You’ll provide: 

• A place to stay, preferably for two or more guests, for eight days 
• Most meals, including sack lunches to bring to FIM 
• Transportation to and from FIM each day 
• A supportive, welcoming environment during a fun but challenging visit for these middle and high school students 

You’ll also have the opportunity to share local activities with your guests. Things like parks, sporting events, local restaurants and shopping are always a big hit. Or work together with other host families to plan opportunities outside of rehearsal for orchestra members to mingle. And don’t worry, you don’t need to speak French – most of the students speak English! 

This is an incredible way to help young musicians experience American culture and make lifelong connections. But don’t take our word for it.  

Here’s what Emma Benton, an FYSO violinist, had to say about her trip abroad last summer:   

“I know it sounds pretty scary to stay with people that you’ve never met before, or barely know. I was nervous to stay with a host family, but it was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Both of my host families from France and Germany were so nice and made me feel so welcomed.” 

This is your opportunity to be the most important part of someone’s trip of a lifetime.  

If you are interested, contact Dare Stogner at dstogner@thefim.org for more information and a host application.