About AFS

AFS, also known as the American Field Service, is one of the world’s largest not-for-profit volunteer based organizations and provides intercultural learning opportunities through international exchange since 1919.

AFS Statement of Purpose
AFS is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.

The Core Values and Attributes of AFS
AFS enables people to act as responsible global citizens working for peace and understanding in a diverse world. It acknowledges that peace is a dynamic concept threatened by injustice, inequity and intolerance.
AFS seeks to affirm faith in the dignity and worth of every human being and of all nations and cultures. It encourages respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction as to race, sex, language, religion or social status.
AFS activities are based on our core values of dignity, respect for differences, harmony, sensitivity and tolerance.

AFS at a Glance

• International exchanges since 1919
• High school exchanges since 1947
• Over 12,000 participants in 2019
• More immersion into more cultures
• More than 50,000 active volunteers in over 50 countries.
• More than 500,000 program alumni

What We Do

AFS is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board. AFS International provides worldwide leadership, coordination, support, quality control and development of AFS organizations and programs.

AFS around the World

For more information visit the AFS International website