InterExchange participated in the BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel Community Support Group (GSG) Summit, held from November 12-15, 2024, in Myrtle Beach. The summit was a national gathering for communities that host Bridge USA participants on the Summer Work Travel (SWT) program. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including the U.S. Department of State, local government officials, Police Department representatives and community leaders to discuss the SWT program and its impact on both participants, host employers and the local community.
Attendees included representatives from Myrtle Beach and other community support groups from around the U.S., including Port Clinton, OH, Old Orchard Beach, ME, Branson, MO, and Estes Park, CO, Gatlinburg, TN and Virginia Beach, VA.
Our key takeaways:
Bridge USA SWT Programs Programs benefit local businesses
Scott Weinhold, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. The Department of State highlighted the overall impact of exchanges on the community, emphasizing how the program benefits local businesses and fosters international connections. He believed that participants not only gain valuable global perspectives but also contribute economically by filling seasonal jobs in local industries. Beyond work, these Exchange Visitors form lifelong friendships and connections, enhancing cross-cultural understanding.
Ethan Bursofsky, Branch Chief, Office of Private Sector Exchange also shared some insights about the program’s effectiveness, incident reporting and program monitoring initiatives.
Participant Safety: Housing, Transportation, and Health
One of the most pressing topics discussed at the summit was safety for exchange visitors (EVs) covering important issues such as bike safety, safe housing and essential other safety precautions.
Mental health was another important topic at the summit, with a focus on helping participants cope with culture shock. Mallory Colegrove, a Social Worker from the Myrtle Beach Police Department spoke about the importance of self-care and encouraged host employers to help the students to seek a counselor if needed.
Allen Amick, Lieutenant, Myrtle Beach Police Department emphasized on some of the safety precautions participants should take while they are in the country.
Importance of Community Engagement and Best Practices
In recent years, the Myrtle Beach community has united to create a greater impact for the SWT program offering valuable resources and volunteers to support participants at every step. Myrtle Beach City Liaison Kathy Winfree and Mike Winfree from Myrtle Beach CSG shared some insights and inspiring stories on how communities can improve the experience for exchange visitors. The Director of Outreach to International Students, IMPACT Ministries, Christy Morris discussed how local events have positively influenced participants’ experiences during their stay here.
Ground Breaking Ceremony
International Residence Hall (IRH) hosted a groundbreaking for their new project in Myrtle Beach, which will provide 650 seasonal housing beds for Summer Work Travel Exchange Visitors. The first phase will be completed by April 1, 2025.
Conclusion
The 2024 CSG Summit provided invaluable insights into the challenges and successes of the Summer Work Travel program. As the program continues to forge international bonds, its impact on local communities, the exchange visitors, and the broader cultural exchange ecosystem will undoubtedly continue to grow, providing lasting benefits for all involved.
