BRANSON, MO–On February 28, approximately 50 community members gathered with Department of State officials, CENET staff, and representatives from fellow sponsors Intrax and CIEE to discuss the J-1 visa program and lay the groundwork for another successful Summer Work and Travel (SWT) season.

The goal of the of the J-1 Community Forum is to promote greater community engagement and cultural exchange, and to discuss methods to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of all J-1 students in the Branson area.

The recent forum met its objectives through the following discussion topics and presentations: the responsibilities of SWT host employers, participants, and sponsors; initiatives of the International Student Outreach Program (ISOP) and how to get involved; panel discussions with J-1 visa sponsors and the U.S. Department of State; and lastly, networking opportunities with local host employers and other major SWT stakeholders.

Attendees were given the opportunity to learn more about the J-1 SWT program and its importance to the Branson economy and community.

Special thanks to Michael James and Ethan Bursofsky from the U.S. Department of State for attending the event. Additional thanks to our fellow sponsor representatives, Stacie Tollaksen with Intrax and Lauren Kelly with CIEE.

Although CENET is headquartered in Cape Girardeau, MO, an additional office is located in the Springfield/Branson area. CENET’s Branson-based staff members participated in the J-1 Community Forum, and CENET’s Executive Director, Robyn Walker, also attended.

The next community meeting in Branson is scheduled for Wednesday, March 22, 11am- 12pm at Taneyhills Community Library. Please mark your calendars for a planning meeting to discuss Branson student handbooks, bransonj1.com website content, and cultural activities for exchange visitors.  For more event information or for ways to get involved with the Branson J-1 community, please email cenet@cenet.org