Advocacy Day 2025

LifeTRAVELED is proud to be part of the exchange community - a group of individuals and organizations passionate about profound impact of exchanges on individuals and communities.

Three of LifeTRAVELED’s team members - Marina Onaca, President, K.Leigh Furzer, Director of Seasonal Programs, and Analys Sarabia, Program Coordinator - travelled to Washington D.C. to participate in the Alliance for International Exchange’s Advocacy Day with 160 other exchange visitor program champions. Together, we shared the message with Members of Congress that maintaining support for exchange programs makes American safer, stronger, and more prosperous. Through exchange programs, we create positive relationships with future business and political leaders of foreign nations, Americans gain valuable professional skills, and exchange visitors inject millions of dollars into the U.S. economy.

Marina Onaca shared the following about her experience at Advocacy Day:

I had the privilege of visiting Capitol Hill to meet with the offices of Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL, 13), Rep. Hal Rogers (R-KY, 5), and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). Our discussions centered around advocating for the continued support and advancement of cultural exchange programs—programs that make America stronger, safer, and more prosperous.
Cultural exchange programs, such as BridgeUSA, are more than just opportunities for international visitors to experience American culture. They are powerful tools of diplomacy and economic development. These programs foster mutual understanding across borders, enhance U.S. national security through people-to-people connections, and contribute significantly to local economies. For instance, international participants inject over $40 billion into the U.S. economy annually, supporting nearly 400,000 jobs. Moreover, they help American businesses while enriching communities with diverse perspectives.
On a global scale, these exchanges amplify America’s soft power by showcasing our values and creating lifelong ambassadors for the United States. Participants return to their home countries with a deeper appreciation for American culture and institutions, strengthening international ties and fostering goodwill. Domestically, these programs also enhance civic engagement and global knowledge for American hosts, making our communities more inclusive and globally connected.
As a leader in cultural exchange advocacy, I am committed to ensuring these programs continue to thrive. They embody the best of America—our openness, innovation, and commitment to building bridges rather than walls. Thank you to the offices of Rep. Luna, Rep. Rogers, and Sen. McConnell for recognizing the importance of these initiatives and their role in securing America’s future.
Let’s keep working together to ensure that cultural exchange programs remain a cornerstone of America’s diplomacy and prosperity.