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Opening Hearts and Homes: A Cultural Exchange Opportunity

At Bountiful Buzz, we love sharing opportunities that enrich our community's lives. Few experiences offer the blend of cultural discovery, meaningful connection, and family fun quite like hosting an international student. We’re excited to share a unique opportunity for local families to open their homes and hearts to Japanese teenagers eager for an authentic American experience—while creating memories that last a lifetime.

Building International Friendships, One Summer at a Time

Right here in our community, there's a special organization creating meaningful connections between Japanese teenagers and Utah families. Bear River International Experience (affectionately called "BRIE") opens doors to cultural exchange through summer homestay programs, and we had the pleasure of sitting down with Vice President Chris Tolman to learn more.

What Is BRIE?

BRIE facilitates three-and-a-half week homestays for Japanese teenagers who come to experience everyday American family life. Unlike typical exchange programs focused on tourism or formal education, BRIE emphasizes authentic family experiences.

"It's all about the home experience," explains Vice President Chris Tolman. "The delegates are here to be members of the family."

How It Works

  • Japanese teenagers are matched with host families who have children of similar age and gender

  • Host families span from Cache County down to Utah County

  • Program runs July 25th through August 16th, 2025

  • No need for expensive outings—everyday activities are what make the experience special

The BRIE Difference

The program carefully pairs visitors with "host siblings," allowing them to experience American teenage life through genuine peer connections. Activities can be as simple as family meals, game nights, local parks, or household chores.

Chris notes: "A lot of the kids just love to help you cook, and they bring ingredients to cook you a traditional dinner. They come with gifts for the entire family."

A Personal Connection

Chris's own family has hosted twelve Japanese teenagers over the years. What started as a simple opportunity through a homeschooling group in 2014 eventually led to helping establish BRIE as a new organization in 2022.

"The kids become like family by the end of the three-and-a-half weeks," she shares. "They're really shy at first, and then by the end, you're just in tears and hugging."

Breaking the Language Barrier

Worried about communication? Modern technology like Google Translate makes connecting much easier than in years past.

"Back when we started, we had to do charades and talk in broken English," Chris laughs. "Now you can just talk right into your phone!"

How You Can Get Involved

  • Host a Japanese teenager (must have children aged 12-18)

  • Host an adult chaperone (great option for families without teenage children)

  • All hosts must pass a background check for household members 18+

Connect With BRIE

Want to bring international friendship into your home this summer? Connect with BRIE today:

Neighbors connecting neighbors across oceans