Become a Host Family

Host Family

The programme for families who open their home to volunteers coming to Bursa from across Europe.

A host family is the family in whose home a volunteer stays. By opening their home, families do more than meet a need for accommodation; they share a great deal more.

Under the international projects Volunteer Movement runs, volunteers aged 18–30 come to Bursa from various European countries and work here for anywhere between 2 weeks and 12 months. They take part in 30–38 hours of planned activities a week. It is a unique experience for every member of the family: even if you never travel, you can bring the world into your home.

The main benefits of being a host family

A new kind of family life

A family life that sets an example for your child and those around you, open to other languages and cultures. Years later you will find you have an open door in another country.

Using English every day

By hosting a guest you will find yourself using English in every part of your life. While teaching the volunteer Turkish, you get the chance to learn their language too.

Being a cultural ambassador

Why are there portraits of Atatürk everywhere? Why do people kiss elders' hands at bayram? Like every volunteer who comes here, you become a cultural ambassador through this programme.

Discovering new cultures

With volunteers who ask about everything like curious children, you will discover in your own home much that you could not easily learn even by travelling to their countries.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of accommodation is provided for volunteers?: Families provide suitable accommodation and nothing more. A room the volunteer can have to themselves is enough; it should contain standard furniture such as a bed, wardrobe, bedside table, desk and chair. The volunteer should also be free to use shared spaces such as the kitchen, bathroom, living room and balcony.
What else needs to be provided at home?: Families have no responsibility or obligation for volunteers' food, drink or social expenses. Anything a family offers beyond accommodation falls under Turkish hospitality.
Should the volunteer follow the rules of the house?: Yes. Volunteers come knowing they are to respect the family's rules and their home. It matters that the rules are explained at the outset, and in a way that does not oppress the volunteer or narrow their personal space.
Is there a fee for being a host family?: No. Families neither pay nor receive any fee for hosting.
Will we be supported through the process?: Every volunteer has a mentor; throughout their stay, activities and practical arrangements are reviewed at regular monthly meetings. The Volunteer Movement team meets regularly with both volunteers and mentors, and is reachable around the clock whenever needed.

Applying and the final preparations

Once you have the agreement of everyone in the family, all you need to do is fill in the Volunteer Application Form. We select the volunteers who will come after a thorough application and interview process and match families and volunteers with care; we contact the selected families 3 to 6 weeks before the projects.

Volunteer Application Form →