Local Coordinators

What is a Local Coordinator?

Local Coordinators are an integral part of ACES program operations. They represent the organization and its programs in their local communities. The men and women who serve as Local Coordinators are from diverse backgrounds, with differing cultures, experiences and education. However, they all share an interest in culture and diversity, enjoy spending time with young adults ages 15-18 from around the world, and are eager to promote global understanding.

What are the qualifications to become a Local Coordinator?

Have an interest in promoting global understanding and intercultural learning
Enjoy spending time with and assisting young adults from around the world
Are self-starters who enjoy working with youth
Take initiative and enjoy making contacts and developing relationships with schools, host families, and others in their local communities.
Are enthusiastic and work effectively & efficiently as program representatives in their local communities

What responsibilities do Local Coordinators have?

Local Coordinators are responsible for representing ACES and its programs in their local communities. The specific responsibilities vary according to the program and may include:

Recruiting, interviewing and selecting appropriate host families in their communities
Enrolling students in local high schools
Conducting orientations for program participants and host families
Providing regular support, guidance and counseling to students and host families
Submitting monthly student progress reports

What will I gain from being a Local Coordinator?

Aside from the fun, excitement and rewarding experiences you will have with your program participants, host families, schools and others in your community, ACES Local Coordinators are compensated for their work and commitment. As an independent contractor, you will receive monetary compensation for the work you do. Additionally, Local Coordinators who place a minimum number of high school program participants are invited to attend the ACES National Meeting, which is held yearly in the spring. Occasionally, other travel opportunities are offered as well and depend on a variety of factors.

What is my obligation to ACES?

Local Coordinators choose the number of students they place and are never obligated to take on more program participants than they feel comfortable working with. Together with ACES, Local Coordinators match host families and program participants for a successful exchange experience.

What kind of support and training will I receive from ACES?

Local Coordinators receive support from the ACES national office at every step of program administration. This support includes:

A dedicated and experienced national office staff to offer guidance and assistance whenever possible
Comprehensive program training manual
All necessary forms and support documents for each program and its participants
Promotional materials
24-hour emergency assistance

In addition, ACES Local Coordinators may attend periodic training sessions run by experienced staff from our national office or an ACES Regional Director. Virtual and/or in-person trainings cover program administration, policies and procedures, placement and supervision techniques and more. Local Coordinators who place a minimum number of high school program participants are offered an all-expense paid trip to the ACES National Meeting, where coordinators have the opportunity to meet each other, share experiences, and work with the national office and other Local Coordinators on program operations.

Become a Local Coordinator

Simply complete the Local Coordinator Request Form, and submit it to the national office. You will then be contacted by ACES to complete the application process, which will include an application, online criminal background check, references, and an interview.

All fields are required.