2023 iEARN-USA ANNUAL REPORT

2023 Annual Report

A Note From the Director Dear Friends, As we reflect on 2023, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride for the collective achievements we have made together in advancing our mission to build a global community of young people who are bridging cultural divides and working together to change the world. At iEARNUSA, we remain unwavering in our mission to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn with the world and to develop essential skills that will enable them to be successful in our increasingly interconnected world.

This year has been one of both challenges and extraordinary opportunities.

The world continues to face significant obstacles, from political instability to the ongoing effects of climate change; but we have seen firsthand how global education can be a beacon of hope in even the most difficult situations. Through new partnerships and programming, we’ve increased iEARN’s reach and impact, transforming the lives of students in communities throughout the world.

This year also saw the launch of Storytelling for Social Change, a virtual exchange program pairing high school classrooms in the U.S. with classrooms Tunisia and Algeria. This program has already shown promising results, empowering youth with the skills they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world.

But our work is far from done. The vast majority of young people never have the chance to engage in meaningful discourse and learning with peers in another part of the world, missing out of the opportunity to develop critical skills (critical thinking, cultural awareness, creative problemsolving, effective communication) that will help them be successful academically an in today’s workforce. As we look ahead, we are more committed than ever to scaling our programs, expanding our reach, and continuing to advocate for policies that prioritize global education as a critical driver of peace, prosperity, and diplomacy.

This report highlights the key accomplishments and milestones of iEARNUSA over the past year. It also reflects the collaborative spirit that is at the heart of everything we do. None of this would have been possible without the generosity of our supporters, the dedication of our staff, and the tireless work of our educators and our country partners. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of the children and communities we serve.

Thank you for your continued trust and commitment to our shared vision.

As we move forward, I invite you to remain engaged in our journey and to help us create a world where global education and collaborative, crosscultural learning unlocks opportunities for every young person, everywhere.

With deep appreciation,

Stefanie Ortiz-Cidlik Executive Director, iEARN United States

The Most Experienced Leader in Global Education We develop global citizens by connecting and empowering young people around the world to make positive changes in their communities. For more than 30 years, iEARN has engaged over 50,000 teachers and 2 million students in meaningful collaborative projects and exchanges with peers around the world. iEARN-USA offers K-12 classrooms the opportunity to participate in virtual projects with their peers in nearly 100 countries around the world. iEARN also administrates study abroad programs funded by the U.S. Department of State. We are committed to providing experiences for students to connect with peers around the world, thereby creating empathy for other cultures and 21st century essential skills.

Our Mission An interconnected, peaceful and just world

Our Vision To develop and empower an inclusive global community of students and educators who bridge cultural divides and work together to make a meaningful difference in the world

2023 Overview: The Big Picture International exchange programs are vital for fostering global understanding, cultural awareness, and collaboration. By allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures, iEARN-USA programs break down stereotypes, build empathy, and promote mutual respect. Participants gain insights and, in some cases, first-hand experience of diverse ways of life, which broadens their perspectives and equips them with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Our exchange programs not only benefit the students involved but also contribute to the development of international networks and partnerships, helping to address global challenges through cooperation and shared knowledge. iEARN-USA programs encourage personal growth, adaptability, and global citizenship, empowering young people to become leaders who can work across cultural and national boundaries.

21,934

90

Students Impacted

5,886 students took action to improve their communities

in

Countries

15 in

Countries

37,000 OVER

HOURS

Impact on Students & Career Development International exchange programs play a significant role in enhancing students’ career development by broadening their global perspective and fostering essential skills for the modern workforce. iEARN-USA programs expose students to different cultures, languages, and educational practices, making them more adaptable, globally aware, and culturally competent.

Such experiences enhance critical thinking, communication, and problemsolving abilities, which are highly valued by employers. Ultimately, participating in an international exchange program can distinguish students in competitive job markets, demonstrating their ability to work in diverse teams and contribute to global projects.

89% of students participating in Storytelling for Social Change, reported an increase in communication skills as a result of the program (Data from Steven’s Initiative Storytelling for Social Change survey).

“I enjoyed being able to learn about people and their cultures from their own experiences and writings. It was also helpful to talk to real people instead of reading about how other people live through books or news articles.”

- iEARN USA student participant

Impact on Students & Career Development

“I learned to respect the opinions of others and listen to them when they speak, and I also learned that there are social problems that we should talk about more and address.”

- Student from Algeria in Storytelling for Social Change

“My favorite part of the program was being able to talk to people from across the world. I feel like if I didn't experience this, I would probably never have talked to anyone from outside the U.S.” - Student from the United States in Storytelling for Social Change

“Students can give a value to the skills and experiences gained through international exchange programs, such as adaptability, intercultural communication, and global awareness. Participation in such programs can enhance students' resumes and increase their competitiveness in their future lives.” - Educator from Algeria in Storytelling for Social Change

Impact on Communities International exchange programs have a profound positive impact on communities by fostering cross-cultural understanding, promoting global awareness, and enhancing social cohesion. Participants in iEARN-USA’s international exchange programs develop diverse perspectives, skills, and ideas that can help address local challenges, stimulate innovation, and enrich the cultural fabric of their communities. By encouraging collaboration and mutual respect between individuals from different backgrounds, exchange programs help break down stereotypes and build lasting international networks. These exchanges not only contribute to personal growth for the participants but also create a ripple effect, inspiring greater openness and cooperation within local populations, ultimately making communities more inclusive, resilient, and globally connected.

In November 2023, two NYC classes received recognition from NYC Mayor Adams for their participation in the Storytelling for Social Change virtual exchange program with students in Tunisia and Algeria.

Impact on Communities

12691 community members were impacted by YES Alumni projects

784 YES Alumni implemented community projects

Around 1500 host family members benefitted from cultural exchange by hosting YES and NSLI students.

116 YES Alumni hosted community events

2023 Financial Data

Donors & Board of Directors DONORS Anwar Abdulbaki Amazon Smile Foundation Barbara Barry Bright Funds Brodsky Family Foundation Peter Copen John Doherty Mona Eraiba Facebook Alessia Falsarone Fidelity Charitable Theresa Frediani Craig Gebelein Edwin Gragert Arthur Havighorst Catherine Healy Lisa Jobson Patricia & Thomas Kalinowski Paul Kalms Barry Kramer Rob Madrid Margaret Riel Stefanie Ortiz-Cidlik Sarah Owo-Oyekan Elizabeth Owosina Posner Wallace Rutgers Presbyterian Church Dell Salza Skye Sun-Chen Sue Talley Susannah Troner George Warnock Winchester School District

BOARD OF DIRECTors Alessia Falsarone, Board Chair Hady Amr Margaret Riel Mona Eraiba Dr. Jason Van Heukelum Nikhil Vaish Barry Kramer George Warnock Ivie Serioux