ABC Host Families
Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS A HOST FAMILY?

Each A Better Chance Scholar has a “Host Family” – an important bridge between the ABC residence and the local community. Many Host Families form important and long-lasting relationships with the Scholars and their families.

Host Families are special people with the strong desire and commitment to welcome Scholars into their homes as members of their families. Through Host Families, these young people gain a “home away from home” during their time as an A Better Chance Scholar. They are also given an opportunity to experience the Guilford community by participating in local activities.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the commitment of being a host family?

  • The academic year - September through May. The scholars return home for summer and school vacations.

  • Pick-up at the GABC house on Friday, 5 PM until Saturday, 5PM

 

Are we committing to one year or longer? What if we feel that we are unable to continue after a year or two?

  • Ideally, you are committing to hosting your student through their duration at GHS. Each year builds on the connection and relationship, and consistency is key. However, if it really is not working out, we won’t force the relationship.

 

How are families matched with a scholar?

  • We try to consider personality or interests when possible. Some scholars have lots of siblings and may want a quieter household, or conversely love being around lots of kids. We try to get as much input as we can to make the best match.

 

Are there any requirements for becoming a host family?

  • We do run background checks. We do this for all volunteers directly involved with the scholars. Aside from that, we look for a loving, open-hearted family who is willing to be a home away from home.

 

Where do the scholars stay during the week while attending school, and on the other weekends in the month?

  • GABC is a 501(c)3 that owns and operates a residence in Guilford (on Church Street across from CVS). We employ a full-time resident director who lives in an apartment attached to the house, as well as a part-time cook and afternoon supervisor (Monday-Thursday). One weekend a month the scholars head to their own homes; and the remaining weekends they are at the ABC house. The host family overnight truly becomes a highlight for them and enhances their connection to the community.

 

What are the expectations for both the scholar and the family during the weekend the scholar is at your house?

  • Broadly speaking, the family does its thing and the scholar is incorporated. For example, they may join at a sporting event, run errands, go to the movies, family dinners, etc. Having downtime is an important element. The scholars live in a busy house on a regular basis with a lot of school work and activities, so they really relish the downtime on weekends to recharge and relax.

 

If the scholar is involved in school sponsored activities (i.e. sports, theater) during the weekend would we need to provide transportation?

  • We would determine the scholars needs and make a plan with you.

 

Do they spend time with friends during host family?

  • No. With only 7 host family overnights we like to make the time together a priority. If the host family would like to include a friend in an activity, that’s a decision you can make.

 

What if we are going to be away on a scheduled overnight?

  • We will work with you. Host families receive a calendar for the entire year so you will be able to look through and see which weekends (Sat/Sun) are yours. If there is a conflict, we have back-up options we can discuss.

 

Are there any other commitments besides the host family overnights?

  • We invite you to the welcome picnic (September), holiday open house (December), and the end year dinner (May) for ABC scholars and their families, staff, and volunteers. We schedule host family meetings 1-2x through the year, or as necessary.

 

Is there communication/Involvement with the scholar’s family?

  • That really depends on each family…There might be communication now and then - emails or calls. Our September welcome picnic is a big connector as well as the holiday party.

 

Do we need to provide any financial support to the scholar?

  • Guilford ABC scholars receive an allowance. Host families are not required to contribute money to their lives outside the home. However, host families will certainly spend money on their scholars whether on a meal, activity or event the family is attending. Beyond that, purchases, including gifts, should be modest. Any significant purchases should be discussed with the Host Family Coordinator or Resident Director.

 

What is the host family involvement in academics and the college application process?

  • Each scholar has an Academic Advisor, access to tutors, as well as the support from the educational consulting group, College Matters. Host parents should share any pertinent information and concerns with the Resident Director and the Host Family Coordinator, but they are not responsible for academic monitoring. 

If you are interested in serving as a host family for a GABC student, please contact Elisa Milano, (203) 499-7855. (Download our Host Family brochure.)