what is youth for understanding
meet the organisation
Youth For Understanding (YFU) is a volunteer-driven global nonprofit organization, fueled by the passion of individuals, comprising 55+ YFU branches spread across six continents. As a leader in intercultural exchanges and educational programs for over 60 years, YFU has impacted over 270,000 students - and their host families, schools, and networks - as well as over 70,000 volunteers.
Since inception, we have been united by the belief that full cultural immersion is an effective means to acquire the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly multicultural, competitive global society. YFU will be with you every step of the way, from application to return, helping you stay connected with the international community long after you've returned home. We create a safe, supportive environment where you can explore different cultures and gain better understanding.
Cultural immersion leaves lasting impressions that ripple out to others around you. Our intercultural exchange program is unique in offering you the journey of a lifetime: an adventure that brings out the best in people and enables you to forge lifelong connections that will alter your global perspective! This is how YFU creates positive global change!
Our location
Where in Flanders are we located?
Our organisation is active in the entire region of Flanders. We have both volunteers and participants in the smallest village and the biggest city, In a coastal town or in a hamlet surrounded by woods. In short YFU is everywhere. Our office and the location where we house our volunteers is in Mechelen. A small but bustling city in the heart of Flanders.
