The Friendship Family Program was established in Hays as a community based program in 1993. Revitalization of the program began in 2005. In 2005, 19 families were matched with 29 students. During the 2006-2007 academic year, 25 families were matched with 51 students. During the 2007-2008 academic year, 39 families were matched with 83 students.

As the population of international students at Fort Hays State University continues to grow, the need for community members to participate in the program will continue to grow as well.