AFS Intercultural Programs, formerly the American Field Service, is accepting applications from local families interested in opening their homes and lives to exchange students who will be attending high school in the Seattle area.

AFS is a worldwide nonprofit that has been leading international high school student exchange for more than 60 years.

More than 2,500 AFS exchange students arrive in the United States each year to be welcomed into families, high schools and communities.

Host families provide a bed and meals, share their daily lives with students, and help guide and support students as they would their own children.

Rick Bendix of AFS said Ballard families have been welcoming exchange students to the neighborhood for the past 15 years.

AFS differs from many other exchange organizations thanks to its network of thousands of volunteers in the United States, many of whom have hosted themselves or studied abroad with AFS.

In addition to paid staff, more than 300 local volunteers for AFS-Greater Puget Sound support families, their hosted students and schools to ensure everyone gets the most out of the hosting experience.

Families who wish to host an AFS exchange student or students seeking more information about AFS programs and scholarships for going abroad can call 1.800.AFS.INFO or visit www.afsusa.org.