PURPOSE
Our vision is to connect international students with committed hosts in the Triangle area by sharing meals together in hosts’ homes during one semester.
These occasions can offer support to international student guests and provide a valuable cross-cultural experience for both students and hosts. We even hope that the relationships formed may continue beyond Supper Club. This is a great way for your household – housemates, spouse, children, marrieds with or without children – to be directly involved in blessing the nations!
OVERVIEW
Once we have received all host registrations, new hosts will receive an orientation on cross-cultural hospitality and engagement. After we have received all the student registrations, hosts will be given their assigned students (2-4) for the semester. The hosts and students will meet at the Kick-Off event. After the Kick-Off, hosts will invite students over to their homes for 3 meals throughout the remainder of the semester.
EXPECTATIONS
- Supper Club Volunteers must attend:
- Host Orientation (new hosts only)
- Kick-Off
- Three in-home meals during the semester on agreed-upon weekends (once a month)
- Hosts must communicate with students before meals
- The students will also be accepted into the Supper Club by committing to participate similarly.
IMPORTANT DATES
Host Orientation (for new hosts, choose one)
Saturday, January 18th, 2:00pm-3:30pm at Summit Brier Creek
Tuesday, January 21, 7:00pm-8:30pm at Blacknall Church
Kick-Off:
Saturday, January 25 3:30pm – 6:00pm at Blacknall Church
In-home meals*:
Meal 1 Weekend of Feb 1-3
Meal 2 Weekend of Feb 22-23
Meal 3 Weekend of March 21-23
*You and your group will decide together the exact time and date for each of these meals. We suggest making plans for the next meal in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I live far away from Duke?
Please understand that if your home is a 30+ minute drive for students it will be difficult for students to commit to coming to your home. We will try our hardest to find students for your home but your flexibility and understanding will be helpful.
Are the students Christian? Will they know that we are Christians?
Most of the students we interact with are not yet followers of Jesus. They come from all faith backgrounds (Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist, Agnostic, Muslim, etc.). This is an opportunity to let them feel and see the love of Christ in your life.
We do not advertise directly that our hosts are Christians. However, we are transparent in our own beliefs with the students we know and interact with regularly. It is also listed on our website (where the students sign up) that our volunteers come from local churches.
Should we have some sort of program or activity planned?
No. You being you is what is most important. The students are interested in your home environment, your daily life, and your family.
If you are searching for things to do other than just the meal, here are a few suggestions: Questions in a Box App, board & card games, singing and playing music together (if this is something you do regularly), preparing the meal together, doing holiday activities (pumpkin carving, decorating Christmas trees, Easter egg hunts), or inviting them to teach you something about their culture (a game, their home town, a sport they play).
I’m new at loving internationals, will I receive any training?
- Yes! You are required to attend training before you become a Supper Club host. We won’t have time to cover everything, so below are some useful resources we can recommend.
- For information about a particular country/religion, this site is helpful: prayercast.com.
- For some helpful articles and videos on sharing Christ’s love with internationals see these sites: reachinginternationals.com, everyinternational.com
Will the students in my home know each other?
It is unlikely. This is an opportunity for students to meet other internationals, so we pair students randomly but prayerfully and under the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Should we pray before the meal?
International students usually enjoy observing how American families go about their daily routines. Don’t interrupt your regular practice of praying before meals, if that is the routine at your house. Simply explain what you are doing and invite your friends to observe.
Do I have to be married or have a house to be a host?
No! You and your roommate/friend can host. Apartments are fine too. We do ask that you limit the number of roommates/friends you invite to host with you. We value the intimate setting of a few of you around the table so that you can adequately engage with student guests.
Supper club hosts can be individuals, a family, a small group of friends, roommates, or a combination of volunteers.
More Questions?
Use the Contact Us page