The partnership between Buffalo and Dortmund, established in 1978, has fostered a student and youth exchange program that has flourished for just as long. This collaboration has created enduring cultural ties and countless German-American friendships. In Dortmund, the exchange is managed by the Auslandsgesellschaft, a non-profit organization, with strong backing from the local government. Across the Atlantic in Buffalo, a passionate team of volunteers from the Buffalo-Dortmund Sister City Committee dedicates their time and energy to making the exchange a success.This program continues to strengthen international connections, enrich cultural understanding, and inspire young people on both sides of the Atlantic.
Dear Potential Host Families,
Are you ready to make a difference in a young person’s life? Our exchange program thrives thanks to host families like you, who open their homes and hearts to exchange students. Amy Hardy, our coordinator for American host families, encourages everyone with her motto: “Building lasting relationships and lifelong friendship.” By hosting, you’re not just providing a home—you’re fostering cross-cultural connections and creating lifelong memories. We invite you to become part of this enriching experience and help us ensure the success of our exchange program. Hosting will bring new perspectives and joy into your home!
I now have a second family on the other side of the world. We are already planning to meet up with both families next summer!
If you’re not interested in hosting but would rather participate in an exchange program in Germany, you’re in the right place!
High school students (ages 14–18) can join our summer exchange program: a three-week stay in Dortmund that includes visits to other cities in Germany and the Netherlands.
Amy Lynn Hardy
American Coordinator of
Buffalo-Dortmund Exchanges
buffalodortmundexchanges@gmail.com
716-399-0262 (weekdays after 3:00 p.m.)
Norena Kunter
Steinstraße 48, 44147 Dortmund
kunter@auslandsgesellschaft.de
+49 231 83800-48
Margarethe Thomas
Steinstraße 48, 44147 Dortmund
thomas@auslandsgesellschaft.de
+49 231 83800-28
Invitation to all interested families!
Join us on December 4, 2025, at 6 pm at the Buffalo Yacht Club (1 Porter Ave, Buffalo, NY 14201) to learn more about the partnership between the sister cities Buffalo and Dortmund and our Buffalo–Dortmund student exchange programs.
To register, please send us an email at: buffalodortmundexchanges@gmail.com
Buffalo and Dortmund’s 75-year exchange tradition continues! German students will spend 3.5 months in Buffalo, and host families are needed from August 23 to December 7, 2025. Open your home to cultural exchange, create lifelong connections, and be part of this incredible program. Learn more in our latest blog post!
After a decade of dedicated leadership, Lynn Engle is stepping down as the director of the Buffalo Dortmund Student Ambassador Program. Lynn’s journey with the