- Attend an event or activity sponsored by The International Link. These events are specifically designed to encourage interaction and relationships between Americans and internationals.
- Take your international friend to your child’s sporting event, musical recital, or similar event.
- Invite your friend to your home for dinner. A fancy spread is not required – just add a plate to the table and serve what you would normally serve for dinner.
- Involve your friend in household chores on a Saturday – mowing the yard, cleaning out the garage, painting a room. They want to learn about and experience “normal” American life.
- Play a board game together. Pictionary is a simple game that is enjoyed by many.
- Invite your friend to teach you to cook a meal native to their home country.
- Attend cultural events in the community together: ball games, festivals, picnics, concerts, etc.
- Ask your friend what events or activities he or she would like to experience while in the U.S.
- Help with practical needs of being new to the area: offer to help them find a doctor, locate the DMV, or pick out a cell phone.
- Find out when your friend’s birthday is and celebrate with them.
- Introduce your friend to American holidays. Find out about their national holidays and how they are celebrated and do something special when those holidays arrive.
