An educational institution in the Perry community will be holding an informational meeting relating to a student-exchange program on Tuesday.

The Des Moines Area Community College VanKirk Career Academy is inviting people out to learn about the World Link Exchange Program in order to host international students for the fall semester. According to Director Eddie Diaz, World Link students represent a select group of high-achieving youth that reflect the diverse ethnic, social, religious, and economic makeup of their home countries. He mentions that several students will be coming to Perry this fall, but will need to be matched with a host family.

Diaz outlines that World Link students will come with their own spending money and health insurance, as the host families will just need to provide a welcoming home, meals, and a seat at the family table. He details that the students are placed in cluster groups within Iowa and nearby states to ensure strong support and community connections. Diaz indicates that the students are scheduled to arrive in Perry by mid to late August, but they must be matched with a host family by August 1st. 

Diaz welcomes anyone interested to attend an informational meeting this Tuesday at 5pm, at the DMACC VanKirk Career Academy in Perry. Any questions can be directed to Alli Johnson at (515)-993-2930 or email alliworldlink@gmail.com.