This U.S. State Department sponsored program is seeking an accredited American university or college to serve as a Benjamin Franklin Institute for approximately 45 American and European youth. These institutes aim to:

  • Foster a sense of civic responsibility and cooperation among youth
  • Develop relationships among diverse youth groups
  • Promote mutual understanding between Americans and other peoples
  • Develop a cadre of young leaders who will influence their peers through positive action

Institutes will develop these values through lessons on democracy, problem solving, conflict resolution, team building, youth leadership, communication skills, volunteerism and respect for diversity. Partner institutions are responsible for:

  • Recruiting & selecting American participants
  • Orientation, exchange & follow-on activities
  • Logistics & accommodations
  • Monitoring & evaluations

The approximate average award is $225,000. Applications are due November 19, 2012. For more information, see the link below:

http://exchanges.state.gov/media/pdfs/rfgps/rfgp-bftf-formatted.pdf