Because Londa Arndt's family had such a great time hosting two Northern Ireland teenagers, one Catholic and one Protestant, her family has hosted teens four times as part of the Children's Friendship Project for Northern Ireland.
"They become a part of our family for the time they are here," Arndt said.
The Children's Friendship Project for Northern Ireland, or CFPNI, held a fundraiser at the Flame Room of Vienna's Volunteer Fire Department's hall last Saturday evening. Fundraiser attendees had dinner, watched some Irish step dancing, and participated in live and silent auctions before the evening ended with more Irish music.
CFPNI invites teenagers from Northern Ireland to live with American families during the summer for four weeks. American families host two teenagers, one Catholic and one Protestant. By living in a neutral environment, they focus on what's common between them.
"They actually start to appreciate one another's cultures. And I think that could serve as an example of to the rest of the world," said CFPNI vice chairman Ian Young. Young lives in Ireland. "Not only do they come back with a different attitude, they come back with leadership skills....they bring their families and friends into the fold."
For more information on CFPNI, call 703-568-0433 or go to their Web site, www.cfpni.org.