The youth exchange program that annually sends students and chaperones to Iowa’s sister state of Kosovo will be holding a Taste of Kosovo Dinner and Fundraiser on April 11 at Willow Ridge in Fort Dodge.

The event will start with a social hour at 6 p.m. with a welcome message at 6:30 p.m. followed by a night of celebration and fine dining.

“Ten years ago, this partnership began with a simple idea – that connection, education and cultural exchange could open doors for students,” said Fort Dodge Senior High School counselor Jolene Hays, who has traveled with the students from Senior High and St. Edmond who visited Kosovo. “Because of our supporters, that ideal became a reality.”

At the Taste of Kosovo Dinner, guests will hear directly from past students who have been part of this journey as they share how the program has influenced their lives. Hays said she has commitments from a student from each of the previous trips to come and speak.

-Messenger photo by John McBride
Kolby Wilson, left, and Peyton Hays work on a project during a community service in Kosovo during their visit in 2022. The local students made stars used for a community-wide celebration in the summer.

Guests will also enjoy a delicious Kosovo-inspired five-course meal, meaningful stories, and time to reflect on the connections that have grown from this partnership, according to Hays.

There will also be a silent auction to help raise funds for this year’s trip. Students selected help fundraise, but do not have to pay for their travel.

“Over the past decade, our sponsors’ generosity has helped students learn, grow and build opportunities that will shape their future,” said Hays. “We would love everyone to join us as we celebrate the impact they helped make possible.”

This year’s group of students will travel to Kosovo in late July to early August. While there they will attend a leadership camp, travel to different cities in Kosovo and stay with host families in Gjakova, the sister city to Fort Dodge.

Hays also said there are plans for students from Kosovo to come to Fort Dodge this spring, spend some time at the high school and experience Iowa life.

Tickets for the Taste of Kosovo are available at Hy-Vee or can be purchased online at eventbrite.com and then searching Taste of Kosovo. Tickets are $55.

Hays said seating is limited and she encourages anyone wishing to attend to purchase tickets in advance.