We are excited that you are interested in becoming a part of the 40+ year legacy of student exchange in Huntington Beach as a Chaperone for our 2024 Student Ambassadors to our Sister City in Anjo, Japan this summer!
Program overview
The Sister City Association of Huntington Beach is a nonprofit volunteer-run organization operating under the Community Services Department of the City of Huntington Beach. Since 1982 HBSCA has organized programs of international goodwill with our Sister City in Anjo, Japan. The sister city movement is an outgrowth of President Eisenhower's People-to-People concept created in 1956 with the idea that it is the interaction of people--not governments--of different countries and diverse cultures that can put the world on the path to enduring peace.
Since 1982 Huntington Beach and Anjo have participated in an annual Student Ambassador Exchange program. Students from Anjo, Japan travel to Huntington Beach in early July to experience life in Huntington Beach with their host student, including the 4th of July parade, and then travel to Japan in early August to experience life in Anjo with their host student, including celebrating their Tanabata Festival! Cultural and fun activities are enjoyed, lifetime friendships are formed, and the experience has made a lasting impact on students' lives.
Chaperone Eligibility
Any adult, 21 years and older, who works or resides in Huntington Beach or the adjacent cities is eligible to apply. Chaperone’s will host the Anjo Chaperone in their home, and live with the Chaperone’s family in Anjo, Japan (app. 10-12 days each)
Student Selection Criteria
4 students will be selected and must live in Huntington Beach or attend one of the High Schools in the HBUHSD District and act as Ambassadors representing their school, the city of Huntington Beach, the United States, and above all, themselves and their families. Qualities such as self-assurance, maturity, willingness to make new friends, and an interest in learning about a foreign country are considered.
Required Meetings for Chaperone & Students:
Approximate dates of Travel:
> Anjo students in Huntington Beach: Approximately July 1 - 11
> HB students to Japan: Tokyo and then to Anjo: Approximately Aug 1 - Aug 14
Financial responsibilities (approximate)
~ Cost of hosting Anjo Chaperone ~ $500 (Entertainment expenses over 10-12 days)
~ Cost of traveling to Anjo: Funded by the Sister City Assoc of HB
~ $500 (optional additional 2-3 day Tokyo visit)
~ Spending money for souvenirs & incidentals.
We look forward to meeting you, sharing more about the Sister City program, and hearing why you are excited to be part of this wonderful opportunity!
If you have any questions please reach out to Maureen Anzivino, HB Sister City Association Student Exchange Coordinator at hbscassoc@gmail.com or manzivino@hbuhsd.edu or 714-615-7774.
