Frequently Asked Questions

Some commonly asked questions about the project are listed here.  If you have further questions, please see the Contact List and e-mail us to ask for more information.

1.  Why is there a need for the Ulster Project?

• Northern Ireland is a separate country from the Republic of Ireland and has been experiencing sectarian violence ("The Troubles") for more than 30 years.  The Ulster Project builds peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland person by person through the teens and families who participate.  The Ulster Project strengthens families to stand for peace.

2.  What is expected of host teens?

• The primary responsibility of a host teens is to be a gracious and thoughtful host.  The American host teen must be sure to show the Belfast teen that they are glad to have them here and that they are interested in learning more about their guest.  The project schedule is very demanding and involves daily activities, thus significant summer or camp plans will conflict with the project.  Although host teens may wish to have their Belfast teen meet their local friends, the host teen's primary responsibility is to spend time being a good host to their Belfast teen.  After the first few days of the project, all 32 project teens usually want to spend most of their time with each other.

3.  What is expected of the host families?

• Host families must provide a safe, secure, warm and supportive home for their Belfast guest.  Host families are expected to attend orientation meetings before the Northern Irish teens arrive and to communicate with the parents of their Belfast teen.  Host families are expected to provide transportation to and from Ulster Project events and activities.  The driving can be intensive, so we strongly encourage car pools.  Your Belfast teen does not need to have their own room, but they do need their own bed.  Host families are expected to care for their guest teen as they would care for their own child.  Host families are encouraged to chaperone events and join project committees.

4.  How will our family benefit from participating in the Ulster Project?

• Past participants of the project talk a lot about the wonderful benefits of participating as a host family.  Your family will develop friendships with your guest teen and their family in Northern Ireland.  Your family and teen will also develop friendships with the other teens (both American and Northern Irish) in the project.  You will gain information about Northern Ireland, experience the "Belfast accent" and participate in many fun activities.  Many past teens travel Belfast in subsequent summers.  Your teen will also participate in "Discovery" sessions which will contribute to personal growth in all teen participants.  Many past teens describe the project as "the best summer of my life".  Your teen will also participate in service projects.  After completing the project, your teen will receive a letter certifying 150 service hours which can be used for applying to the National Honor Society as well as college admissions and scholarships.