By: Sarah Flynn, School Relations Manager, Greenheart Exchange
Greenheart staff Sarah Flynn and Mirelle Patrey recently visited with Florida congressional offices for Senator Rick Scott, Senator Ashley Moody, and Congressman Darren Soto. Representing the Orlando area and Florida at large, these key decision makers are critical when it comes to advocating for BridgeUSA programs.
BridgeUSA exchange visitors have an impact on local communities
Sarah and Mirelle discussed Greenheart International, our programs and services, and BridgeUSA programs overall with the congressional staffers. They answered meaningful and thoughtful questions from the offices to share knowledge and promote BridgeUSA programs overall. A focus of the meetings was the economic impact BridgeUSA exchange visitors have in Florida. In Florida, over 10,000 exchange visitors contributed over $56.9 million to the U.S. economy in 2023. Florida greatly benefited from BridgeUSA participants with seven visa categories operating there, including Au Pair, Camp Counselor, Intern, Trainee, Secondary Students, Summer Work Travel, and Teacher. The largest group was Summer Work Travel, with about 4,800 exchange visitors in the state.
U.S. Exchange Programs Make America Safer, Stronger and More Prosperous
BridgeUSA programs are key for fueling a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America. This aligns perfectly with Department of State priorities. BridgeUSA programs make America safer by expanding our global influence on key geographic areas: China, Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, Peru, Brazil, and Argentina to name a few.
Over 1.7 million world leaders are alumni of U.S. exchange programs. 87%-98% of alumni spread positive messages about their experiences in the U.S. throughout their networks. To make America stronger, over 280,000 Americans study abroad each year. Through exchange experiences, participants gain skills in communication, leadership, and problem-solving, which are required for over 31 million jobs.
Communities celebrate exchange programs by rallying to support exchange visitors and engage in meaningful cultural exchange. BridgeUSA programs make America more prosperous by contributing $43.8 billion to the U.S economy. About 90% of Department of State exchange program budgets are spent on Americans or in America. Lastly, BridgeUSA participants contributed $277 million in federal taxes in 2023.
Supporting J-1 BridgeUSA Programs
The Congressional offices were surprised to hear a proposed funding cut of up to 93% from the White House. They were also eager to learn more about how to support BridgeUSA programs. A cut of this magnitude would decimate BridgeUSA programs. Therefore, funding support from Congress is key to maintain strong BridgeUSA programs. By building relationships with Congressional offices, we strive to maintain strong, safe, and prosperous exchange programs for years to come.
Thank you, Sarah and Mirelle, for representing Greenheart and sharing an update on our participation!
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators to contribute to the learning experience of your students and communities? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host today.
Did you know? If your school participates in one or more of Greenheart’s cultural exchange programs, your school will be eligible for up to $4,000 in grants as a Greenheart School. Details at GreenheartSchools.org.