Greenheart Exchange welcomes foreign student to Decatur County

Published 12:00 pm Wednesday, July 30, 2025

By matching international high school students with volunteer host families, Greenheart Exchange creates immersive educational experiences that foster cultural understanding and bridge the gap across cultures and continents.

Students have the option to join the program for either a semester (five months) or a full academic year (ten months). During their stay, they attend local high schools across the United States, gaining exposure to the American education system and participating in a wide range of extracurricular activities—from sports and music to student clubs and community service.

Cynthia George, a longtime advocate for international exchange, has made it her mission to bring the world closer to South Georgia—especially Decatur County. Born and raised in Malaysia and ethnically Chinese, George knows firsthand the transformative power of cultural exchange. She was once an exchange student herself, traveling through Europe and sharing Malaysian traditions with host families. That experience planted the seed for what would become her life’s work.

“I understand how important diversity is,” George said. “Some people may never get the chance to travel beyond Bainbridge or Decatur County—but we can bring the world to them.”

George has placed dozens of students with host families across South Georgia. She describes the experience as deeply personal and impactful, not just for the students, but for the families who welcome them.

“These students become your children,” she said. “Last year, I had two or three families where that bond was so strong, it was like they’d gained a new family member.”

Eager to expand the program’s reach, George hoped to introduce the Greenheart Exchange program to Bainbridge, Georgia. “I have not placed any students in the Bainbridge area, but I’m working towards bringing more diversity to South Georgia,” George said back in March. “Instead of going abroad, how about bringing diversity home? The residents and community in Bainbridge have so much to gain from this program in terms of culture, language, and cuisine.”

Starting this fall, Hannah from Germany is bringing that vision to life. After landing at Tallahassee International Airport, she’ll begin her journey at Bainbridge High School—the school’s first-ever exchange student.

Boasting a vibrant mix of 280+ international students hailing from places like Spain, Italy, and Denmark still waiting to experience life in the United States, Greenheart Exchange is calling on families to open their homes and hearts. The goal is to place students before the 2025-26 school year begins in August, but applications remain open throughout the season.

“Exchange students are like windows to the world,” George said. “I love the perspective they bring.”

Thinking about hosting an exchange student? Head over to Greenheart Exchange’s website to learn more. If you have questions, Cynthia George is happy to help at 229-225-6812 or cg25.greenheart@gmail.com.