How is AFS structured?

AFS is a network of independent, non-profit, volunteer based Partner Organizations committed to achieving world peace through intercultural exchange. Within each country AFS is organized in local volunteer chapters of varying geographic sizes. These chapters are the primary center for the program activity. Each Partner organization is led by a volunteer board with responsibility and accountibility for their Partner organization to the volunteers and to AFS Intercultural Programs, Inc. The Partner board is also responsible for the professional staff. AFS Intercultural Programs provides worldwide leadership, coordination, support, quality control and development of AFS Partners and programs. An international Board of Trustees, elected by the Partners is responsible for AFS worldwide. The day-to-day work internationally is taken care of by the International Adminstration of AFS, based in New York City, USA.