Last summer Greg Beers, Ky., generously opened his home to an OotM team from Poland. "The voyage started with a nine-hour drive from Maryland to Kentucky and ended with tearful goodbyes at the airport. The two teams spent over five days learning about each other's culture and having fun shopping, eating, and visiting local landmarks. We feel the Homestay program is one of the most important parts of Odyssey of the Mind. Our team would love to host a team next year!" He was part of the OotM Homestay Program.

Imagine staying with a group of students that speak a different language and live on opposite sides of the world. Some may be tentative at this prospect but, in true Odyssey spirit, many Odyssey families welcome this opportunity. And participants often find out that they have more in common than they thought possible.

Not only does Odyssey help you make friends in your area, it helps you make friends from around the world. The Homestay Program brings together international and U.S. teams, where the international team travels to the homes of their matched U.S. team for a few days after World Finals.

"We had a fabulous adventure hosting a team from Germany this year. The coach and students were great guests, and so appreciative of the experience we were able to share with them. My family now has friends from across the world," said Darlene Ryan, N.Y.

To participate, international teams must compete at World Finals, though it is important to note that any U.S. team may participate in the program without attending World Finals. Furthermore, you do not have to be involved in Odyssey to host teams, so neighborhoods could work together to share in the homestay experience.

Beatrice Showman's team from Florida hosted a team from Russia. She said, "The memories that were created, the ambassadorship that both teams experienced, could not have been better. We've formed lasting friendships that will forever impact our lives in an extraordinarily positive way."

Robyn Norrbom, Va., and family had a similar experience with her Japanese Homestay team, "Our Homestay gave us a little taste of Japanese culture, but mostly we delighted in their new experiences."

Last year 20 international teams stayed with families from throughout the U.S. with many wonderful results. In fact, there were so many positive responses that demand for Homestays has greatly increased.

The Maine association hosted two teams. Association Director Fern Brown said, "After the neighborhood cookout, three families from the area decided they want to host teams next year. I hope more people will consider having a Homestay. Remember, the kids are not looking for Disney World -- they want to know what American kids are like and how they live."

The Homestay coordinators would like to encourage all U.S. Odyssey teams and families to contact them to participate in the Homestay program, "The rewards are great and we don't want you to miss out on all of the fun!"

Sign up early in order to ensure you get the opportunity. Remember, you can sign up any time during the year and do not have to be taking part in World Finals to be a part of the Homestay Program. Simply contact Tom Scott by emailing him at: odysseyhomestay@gmail.com.