WELCOME TO
THE FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM:
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Our goal is to help international students develop meaningful friendships
with Canadian families
MEET THE TEAM
We're a Calgarian team that's passionate about helping international students connect with families across Canada.
Send us an email if you'd like to help volunteer in the movement!
KELLY JOHNSON
The Friendship Program Co-Director
Kelly has served as a chaplain at the University of Calgary for 25 years. His love of diversity in the people and places of our world has sparked him to be an enthusiastic champion for this friendship program and helping provide hospitality to international students.
SHAWN TOMLINSON
The Friendship Program Co-Director
Shawn and Karen love adventure and meeting students from around the world. In his free time, you might find Shawn playing badminton, canoeing, or playing guitar. He’s always ready for a good game of ping pong!
DAN KAZMAIER
The Friendship Program Webmaster
Growing up in Calgary and a graduate at the University of Calgary, Dan enjoys experiencing cultures through new friends, food, and travelling! Dan is married to Connie, and is always up for a game of squash or chess!
STORIES
"Being part of the Friendship Program helped me connect with a community which gives me a sense of belonging that I would never have experienced otherwise."
"I am forever grateful.”
Behnam
Iranian Masters Student, 2019
"Through the program, I got in touch with a very caring family who helped me learn about Canadian culture. Their love and affection has made me feel welcomed in this land. To sum up, the Friendship Program does perfect justice to its name, ‘a home away from home’."
Mandeep
Nepalese PhD Student, 2019
"Amy has gone back to China. We had a wonderful time together. I went to her grad and met her mom. It was all very touching and I’m a much better person for having met her."
Candace
Friendship Family, 2012
"I always consider them [Alister & Beulah] as my grandparents as they treat me and care about me like their grandson. They always try to introduce new people to me and improve my network here. I am absolutely delighted to attend this program and I will strongly recommend all international students to register."
Mehrshad
Environmental Engineering Student, 2017