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Home for the Holidays

This holiday season, begin a new tradition with Olds College! Mountain View County sparkles with festive energy each winter, creating a heartwarming atmosphere for all. However, for newcomers to our community, especially those far from their families, this time of year can feel lonely.

That's why we’re inviting local residents to join our second annual Home for the Holidays initiative. From Dec 13, 2024 to Jan 3, 2025, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to host an international or out-of-province student for a favourite holiday or winter activity, sharing the warmth of the season.

Home for the Holidays connects hosts with international or out-of-province students for a traditional family event.

Do you host a special dinner each year with family and friends? Have a volunteer experience you’d love to share? Perhaps your family enjoys tobogganing, ice skating or a Santa Claus movie marathon by the fire. Whatever your tradition, we invite you to consider including an Olds College student in the fun this holiday season.

How it Works

  1. Submit a registration form. Staff, faculty and community members fill out the 'Become A Host' form. Students fill out the 'Join a Host Family' form by Dec 13, 2024.

  2. Keep an eye on your emails for your match notification. This will be an ongoing process.

  3. Connect directly with your match to decide on a date, time and activity that suits everyone involved. Be sure to use #OCH4TH when sharing photos or videos of your activity on social media. For every post you make with that hashtag, OR photo, quote or story you share with internationalstudent@oldscollege.ca, you’ll be entered to win one of four campus prize packs worth $200!

Register

Student Registration Host Registration

For more information on how to get involved, contact internationalstudent@oldscollege.ca. 

Host/student matches are dependent on the number of registrations and expectations in each category. The College will do its best to match everyone who registers however, we cannot guarantee a match.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What kinds of events are acceptable?

    We encourage you to choose any event that you and your family enjoy during the holidays. Here are some fun suggestions:

    • A meal or Christmas party with friends and family
    • Watch movies together or go to the theatre
    • Holiday baking or decorating
    • Tobogganing or ice skating
    • Christmas shopping
    • Visiting a holiday market, event, or special display
    • You and your matched student can decide together!

    Do the students live in my home for the holidays?

    No, the student maintains their current living arrangements. This is a one-day event for either the full day or just one activity of your choosing.

    PLEASE NOTE: Your student match may need your help with travel arrangements to and from your activity. Please ensure you discuss this when you connect.

    Can I host more than one student?

    You are welcome to host as many students as you wish! Hosting a group is a great way to ensure as many students as possible are able to participate in Home for the Holidays.

    Can a non-Olds College community member host?

    Yes! This initiative also has a community involvement focus.

    How often can we meet for activities?

    At a minimum, you and your matched student should meet for one activity, but you are welcome to keep in touch or plan for several activities together during the holiday break.

    Can I stay in touch with the students after the holiday period? 

    Yes! We love to see our students engaging with other local communities.

  • What if I live far from my host family?

    If you are matched with a host, please let them know of any travel/distance restraints. They may or may not be able to help, so it is important to discuss before any activity is planned.

    Can I bring a friend?

    This is a question you can ask your host if you are matched. They may or may not be able to accommodate additional students.

    How will I know I have been matched?

    Please be sure to check your email once you have completed the registration form. The matching process is ongoing.

    Please note: We will do our best to match you with a host family, but we cannot guarantee a match.

    Does this program cost money?

    There are no fees associated with the Home for the Holidays program. However, depending on the activity you and your host choose, you may be required to pay for activity-related expenses such as admission fees, or items you wish to purchase.

    Please ensure you discuss the activity in advance to find out if you’ll need spending money. Don’t be afraid to tell your host match if you are unable to pay for an activity or you prefer free activities.

    My family is in Alberta but I am not going home. Can I still participate?

    Yes! Though this initiative is directed toward international and out-of-province students, any student who is unable to spend the holiday season with their family is welcome to participate.

    If I have an accessibility concern, can I still participate?

    Please reach out to the Olds College International team at internationalstudent@oldscollege.ca and we can put together a plan.

Need Assistance?

1.800.661.6537
internationalstudent@oldscollege.ca