CIEE's BridgeUSA Tour Celebrates Cultural Exchange and Economic Prosperity in America

CIEE's BridgeUSA Celebration Tour

The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) is set to embark on a vibrant tour across Ohio and Kentucky, commencing next week. This journey marks the beginning of a summer-long celebration dedicated to the BridgeUSA international exchange programs, which aim to make the United States safer, more robust, and financially prosperous.

As James P. Pellow, the President and CEO of CIEE highlights, "If BridgeUSA did not exist, we would need to invent it, as it truly enriches all Americans." The program has a profound impact not only on participants but also on their host communities. In fact, BridgeUSA participants contribute over $1.2 billion to the U.S. economy through spending and local engagement.

Celebrating Success

The festivities will commence from June 8-11, featuring events celebrating key employers who host BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel participants. Notable attractions like Cedar Point and Kings Island in Ohio, alongside Kentucky Kingdom, will be recognized for their significant roles in facilitating meaningful cultural exchanges for both the international participants and their American coworkers.

These businesses symbolize just a fraction of the over 4,000 organizations in the United States that annually host BridgeUSA participants. They help bring diverse perspectives to American workplaces, encouraging economic growth and cultural exchange. Kaitlin Wattrick, Cedar Point's recruiting manager, noted, "The BridgeUSA program brings in associates from around the world who create amazing experiences for our guests. Beyond the park, it enriches our community by fostering cultural exchange and building lasting connections that extend far beyond the summer season."

Enhancing National Security

Beyond economic benefits, the BridgeUSA programs play a pivotal role in reinforcing America’s national security and diplomatic relations. By cultivating mutual respect, the participants help foster a positive image of the United States abroad. Their experiences in America often lead them to become advocates for American culture upon returning home, thus enhancing respect and understanding across borders.

Economic Impact and Prosperity

The BridgeUSA initiative is instrumental in aiding local economies to flourish. It extends the tourism season, allowing businesses to engage more American workers for extended periods. Countless local establishments—from laundromats to grocery stores—benefit significantly from this program, enhancing their peak-season business activities.

According to Martine Mangion, Senior Vice President of Inbound Exchange Programs at CIEE, many seasonal businesses are enabled to remain operational for an additional 30 to 45 days due to the support from BridgeUSA participants. This not only helps in sustaining domestic jobs during off-peak seasons but also ensures that these businesses can thrive all year round.

Pellow summarizes the importance of the initiative succinctly, stating, "The BridgeUSA exchange programs are the perfect definition of a government program that makes America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. International students pay their way to come to America, support American businesses, and then return to their home countries with a deeper understanding of American culture and democratic values."

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

The CIEE plans to host additional BridgeUSA celebration events in states such as Wyoming, Montana, Texas, and South Carolina throughout the summer. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to Carye Duffin, CIEE Senior Vice President of External Affairs, for participation inquiries.

About CIEE

For over 75 years, CIEE has dedicated itself to building bridges between diverse cultures and people worldwide. The organization has facilitated high-quality international exchange and study abroad experiences, touching the lives of more than a million participants from over 140 countries since its inception in 1947. CIEE continues to change lives, inspiring its alumni to effect positive changes globally. For further information, visit ciee.org.