J-1 Events

J-1 Student Orientation

Each year in late June we host a J-1 Orientation (often held at the Salvation Army), just for you! This orientation is very beneficial and provides you with so many local resources to help you get settled in our community as quickly as possible. The orientation also gives you a chance to meet other J-1 students from around the world in a casual and fun setting with food, drinks and lots of giveaways.

During the J-1 Orientation, you can expect to meet representatives from the following organizations:

OOB Fire & Rescue (home safety), Police Department (bike safety), Social Security Office (applying for your Social Security card), Chamber of Commerce (area information), Libby Memorial Library (library cards and learning about our library), banks (establishing a bank account), Amtrak Downeaster (train information), BSOOB Transit (bus and trolley information), U.S. Cellular (pre-paid U.S. phones), Town Manager’s Office (meet your local J-1 Coordinator), sponsors (meet your area sponsors) and more.

The 2024 J-1 Orientation will be on June 27, 2024 from 2pm to 4pm at the Salvation Army on 2 Sixth Street in Old Orchard Beach. We are gracious to the Salvation Army for their hospitality and generosity in providing the site for this important event.

Exchange Day

Formerly known as J Day, Exchange Day occurs annually throughout the U.S. in early August. Exchange Day is a chance for J-1 Summer Work & Travel participants, sponsors and members of host communities to gather in a fun setting, eat, play, share cultural experiences, and “give back” to communities by bringing a non-perishable food item to donate to the local food pantry.  Raffle prizes will be available for those who donate.

This year’s local Exchange Day was held on Monday, August 5, 2024 from 2-5 pm, in front of the Brunswick at Old Orchard Beach. J1 Students from around New England experienced a fun-filled and memorable afternoon.