Pacific Intercultural Exchange (PIE) is looking for caring families to host high school students from various countries for the 2009-2010 academic school year.

"There are few opportunities in this world where an individual can take an active hand in making the world a better place," PIE Regional Manager Allen Cowart said. "This is such an opportunity." Pacific Intercultural Exchange asks local families to consider showing one of these foreign teens what American generosity is all about.

Students from many countries have been staying with families all over the United States since August, and now a new group of international neighbors would like to add a little more to the community and leave with the American passion, pride, and sense of values.

There is no such thing as a typical host family, Cowart said. "Whether you are a single parent, retired, have small children, teens, or no children at all, anyone can have a great experience hosting an exchange student."

All students for the program are prescreened. They speak English, and have medical insurance and their own spending money for any incidental costs. "All these students require is a loving family to share their experience within our beautiful country," Cowart continued. "Help them learn the meaning of 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.'"

P.I.E is looking for host families in the Wilkes County area. Anyone interested is urged to contact Pacific Intercultural Exchange right away at 866-334-5488. Experience is not necessary, as an orientation and support will be provided.

"Please help P.I.E. make the dreams of these young teens come true, with the opportunity to live and study in our country, and possibly aid in making a difference in their future and the future of the world," Cowart said.

PIE is a non-profit educational organization.