#United States #Myrtle Beach #CIEE #BridgeUSA

CIEE BridgeUSA Celebration Tour Aims to Connect Communities

The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) is on a mission to emphasize the importance of international exchange programs in enhancing American communities and securing economic prosperity. The third stop on their nationwide BridgeUSA Celebration Tour will take place next week in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina—a city known for its tourism and community-driven spirit.

This tour aims to shine a light on how BridgeUSA, powered by the U.S. Department of State, not only ensures America's safety through diplomacy but also strengthens it via global partnerships and innovation. As James P. Pellow, President and CEO of CIEE, aptly stated, “If BridgeUSA did not exist, we would need to invent it, as it truly enriches all Americans.”

The BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel program plays a pivotal role. It brings thousands of international college students to the U.S. during their summer recess, allowing them to work and share their diverse cultures in communities across the nation. Every year, this program contributes a staggering $1.2 billion to the national economy by supporting over 4,000 businesses and facilitating a longer tourist season that benefits not just local businesses but the economy at large.

Celebrating Community Impact

In Myrtle Beach, the CIEE aims to honor the visionary community and business leaders whose support is instrumental in generating these opportunities. The upcoming event will not only celebrate local hosts but also recognize the diligent BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel participants at the annual Ambassador Johnny and Angie Young Civic Leadership Summit. Given the critical role that these international participants play, Martine Mangion, Senior VP at CIEE, highlights their importance: “Many seasonal businesses rely on BridgeUSA participants to enhance and extend their tourist season. In fact, some of our hosts can keep their businesses open an additional 30-45 days longer thanks to their contributions.”

Garrett Watts, COO of Lazarus Entertainment Group, which operates multiple attractions in Myrtle Beach, speaks highly of the program: “BridgeUSA provides significant economic and cultural benefits to hundreds of communities across the United States. We proudly welcome international participants who enrich our workplace with diverse perspectives and cultural insights, creating opportunities for professional growth and cross-cultural exchange.”

Making America Safer and Stronger

Beyond economic advantages, the BridgeUSA program serves as a cultural bridge, nurturing understanding and respect between Americans and citizens from across the globe. Participants return home with positive experiences, spreading goodwill and improving America’s image internationally. This enhances public diplomacy and promotes national security, aligning with the program's core mission.

Driving Local Prosperity

As individual entrepreneurs and local businesses benefit from the extended tourism season provided by BridgeUSA participants, entire communities see a boost in their economies. The core premise of the program states that these international visitors come voluntarily and at their own expense, establishing a mutually beneficial relationship where everyone thrives.

James P. Pellow summarizes it best: “BridgeUSA students pay their way to come to America, they contribute to American businesses, and upon returning home, they carry with them a deeper understanding of American culture, democratic values, and free speech. The significance of this program cannot be overstated.”

About the Young Civic Leadership Summit

This initiative is complemented by the Young Civic Leadership Summit, which aims to empower exceptional BridgeUSA participants through intensive training focused on leadership and intercultural collaboration. Named after Ambassador Johnny and Mrs. Angie Young, the summit embodies a commitment to fostering public service and international understanding.

Looking Ahead

The CIEE BridgeUSA Celebration Tour has traveled through various iconic locations, from Ohio and Kentucky to the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. Future dates will see events in San Antonio, Texas, further emphasizing the program's reach and influence. For those interested in participating in future events, connecting with CIEE’s team is highly encouraged.

CIEE has dedicated over 75 years to building bridges between cultures, sending over a million student exchanges and shaping lives that impact the world. With each participant’s journey, CIEE proves that understanding and partnership transcend borders.

Learn more about their initiatives at ciee.org.

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