Application/References
POCATELLO SISTER CITIES YOUTH DELEGATION TO IWAMIZAWA, JAPAN
During the middle of July, 2024, the Pocatello Sister Cities Committee will send a youth delegation to Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, Japan, our sister city, for a two week cultural exchange. The committee accepts applications from Bannock County students who are currently in grades 9 through 12. The exact dates of the exchange will be determined at a later date. Applications must be received by the Committee no later than September 30,2023. The committee reserves the right to reject late applications. Letters of recommendation from a Personal and School Reference should be sent directly to the subcommittee by those making the recommendation. These letters should be from an Adult with current knowledge of your qualifications. Please attach to your application a current photo. Each applicant will be notified of the date and time of his/her interview appointment. A subcommittee will review applications, conduct interviews and select delegates. This is a wonderful opportunity for students who are seriously interested in other cultures and who would be excited to make a long-term commitment to achieve the goal of a trip to Japan. Potential delegates will be expected to make the preparations for the trip a top priority from the time they are selected until the time they leave. It will be a requirement to attend weekly classes in Japanese culture and language. The date and time of the classes will be determined by the delegation leader and instructors. The cost for each delegate, in the past, has ranged from $2,100 to $2,600. This cost includes plane fare, gifts for the host families and spending money while in Japan. To offset costs, the parents and delegates, under the leadership of the chaperone, will plan fund raising projects. Attendance at fundraisers will be required. Parent involvement with fundraising activities will be expected. Raising the funds is a great deal of hard work, but it is an opportunity of a lifetime and well worth the effort. A first payment of $300 will be due by the first meeting in October 2023. Each delegate will be hosted by a separate family and will be expected to act as a member of that particular household, which would include experiencing Japanese food and following Japanese customs. The families treat the delegates as their own and great friendships are formed. Delegates will associate with one another during day excursions and various cultural activities provided by Iwamizawa officials.
For additional information phone: Marie Fenwick 208-251-5777