Becoming a Local Rep

Nacel Open Door, Inc. (NOD) accomplishes its mission of providing home-stay opportunities for students through a network of Local Representatives and Coordinators who find qualified Host Families. Local Reps make the difference and define the experience that the students and Host Families have during the program. To the Host Family, the Local Rep “IS” NOD.

What sets NOD programs apart from the rest is the consistent high quality of students and the professionalism of the Local Rep in finding great Host Families. Participants are provided with a quality experience that will enhance their growth and encourage life-long friendships between people from all over of the world.

Local Representatives & Coordinators

As a Local Rep, your job is to find qualified Host Families in your hometown and surrounding area and help them choose a student whose interests best fit with theirs. Specific qualifications and responsibilities are outlined below.

Responsibilities of a Local Rep

• Maintain good relationships with schools and community groups to increase participation in NOD programs.
• Follow specific program guidelines for student arrivals and departures.
• Monitor the student’s exchange experience in his/her Host Family, and update your Coordinator or the National Office as necessary, with a minimum of a monthly report.
• If the student cannot remain in the home of the original Host Family, place student in a new Host Family in the same school district if possible.
• Maintain contact with former NOD Host Families in your area.

Responsibilities of a Coordinator

Coordinators have the same responsibilities as Local Reps, as well as a few additional duties including:

• Train and encourage Local Reps to visit and do presentations in their neighborhood schools and groups.
• Recruit Host Families and schools. Work with Host Families to find the best student match, and provide arrival orientation to students and Host Families.
• Establish and nurture a network of Local Reps to provide personal contact in local areas.
• Commit to placing and managing a certain number of students, and work with Local Reps to realize that goal.

Qualifications

• Accept the philosophy and objectives of NOD, and be dedicated to furthering international understanding by promoting cultural exchanges.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and presentation skills, facilitating rapport with teachers, Host Families, and students.
• Possess leadership qualities and strong organizational skills.
• Have patience, flexibility and objectivity in solving problem situations.
• Be able to perform well under pressure, and make sure commitments are met.

Compensation and Expenses: Local Reps receive compensation based on the number of students placed. NOD provides promotional materials such as brochures, posters and videos, and all program materials. The primary expenses of a Local Rep include telephone, postage, printing/copying and mileage. Local Reps must maintain accurate records of these expenses for tax reporting purposes. Local Rep compensation is reported to the IRS on a Form 1099 for non-employee compensation, and Local Reps must complete Schedule C (Form 1040).