Integrating Returnees in the Sending Process
From AFSWiki
1) Returnee Initiative: This is a group of Returnees that have gathered with the intent on visioning, shaping and implementing a Returnee integration strategy for AFS-USA. Currently, there is a core planning group comprised of 5 Returnees who are both staff and volunteer. In addition, there are 25 Returnees nationally, who have returned within the last 15 years. Currently, the group is organizing themselves into three focus groups: Returnee Stucture, Returnee Development, and Returnee Communication. Each subgroup has a number of projects they are narrowing in on to be developed within the next 6 months- projects could include: Returnee eNewsletter, Returnee Resource Center, Returnee Summit, Returnee database. The group began forming in June of 2009.
2) Returnee Mentor Pilot Project: This is a project being spearheaded by a Returnee, in conjunction with Student Services. The aim is to develop a sustainable model for Returnees to 'mentor' leads and applicants. Currently, there are 27 Returnees who have been recruited, screened and trained to be in contact with leads. The intent is that the Returnee can provide a first-hand and personalized account as potential AFSers pursue the application process. This project began in September of 2009.
3) Returnees as Guest panelist on the Online Info Sessions: In partnership, Student Services, Program Services and eMarketing have developed a list of 50+ Returnees who act as guest panelists on the various webinars offered to students throughout the inquiry, application and preparation stages, including the Online Info Session, AFS Pathway, Fundraising Workshop and Country Conference calls. This effort to integrate Returnees into conference calls has been in place since Januaary of 2007.
4) Returnee Country Officer on 'Ask an AFSer' Facebook Group: AFS-USA's Facebook group began in February of 2007, with the intent of providing a space for potential AFSers to connect with Returnees to hear first-hand about AFS experiences. The group is nearly at 3000 members, with an active discussion board and wall. We estimate that 20% of the members are Returnees. We have designated over 20 'officers' who represent the host country as a Returnees. Students are encouraged to reach out to those Returnees via Facebook. This system has replaced the 'referals' we used to keep in a spreadsheet. The officers were developed in June of 2008.
