Xperitas

Our Mission

Transforming lives through shared global experience and intercultural learning.

In 1972, Xperitas was founded by teachers, for teachers—an organization born from the shared passion of World Language educators Jim Phalen and Bob and Edie Green. They understood firsthand the transformative impact of immersive, cultural experiences on students' language learning and personal growth. Their vision was simple: to create a program that would take language education out of the classroom and into the real world, where students could live the language and connect deeply with another culture.

For over five decades, Xperitas has carried this mission forward, empowering teachers to offer their students authentic, life-changing experiences. Our programs go beyond sightseeing and language lessons. With our celebrated Family Stay Experience®, students immerse themselves fully in another culture by living with local families, engaging in everyday activities, and using the target language in real-world settings. This unique approach, designed by teachers who understood the power of connection, brings language and culture to life in a way textbooks never could.

We are proud to continue serving teachers and students, providing meaningful opportunities that build global citizens who are more empathetic, culturally aware, and linguistically skilled. As we look to the future, we invite you to join us in continuing this powerful work—where teachers lead the way, and students are forever changed.

Help support these incredible journeys and make a difference in the lives of students and teachers today.

How Do Your Donations Make a Difference? 

At Xperitas, your generosity directly impacts both teachers and students, opening doors to life-changing language immersion experiences. With your support, we can continue to offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities, ensuring that these transformative programs are accessible to as many students as possible.

One shining example of how donations make a difference is through our Edie and Bob Green Scholarship. Each year, deserving students are awarded merit-based scholarships to help fund their language immersion adventures. These scholarships not only alleviate financial barriers but also provide students with the chance to document their experiences in meaningful ways, such as writing a blog post or creating a vlog about their journey. This helps them to reflect on their personal growth and cultural discoveries, while also inspiring others to embark on similar paths. Take a look first hand, by reading Xperitas alumni essays through our Global Citizens blog!

In addition to scholarships, we encourage students to creatively engage with their immersion experiences through fun contests like our annual Photo Contest. This contest invites alumni to submit their favorite photos from their trips, capturing moments of cultural exchange, language practice, and unforgettable memories. Not only do participants get to showcase their artistic talents, but they also have the chance to win exciting prizes and share their stories with the wider Xperitas community. 

Equity is not a new concept at Xperitas. As a nonprofit, we dedicate your dollars to meaningful assistance, scholarship and classroom grant programs. We provide one of the most robust financial aid programs in the immersion Our scholarship programs are merit-based and all students are encouraged to participate.

 

By donating, you are giving both teachers and students the opportunity to fully immerse in the rich cultures and languages of the world—creating lifelong memories, new perspectives, and deeper connections. 

Thank you for being part of the Xperitas family and helping us make a global impact, one immersion at a time.