Ace International
About Us
Our Story
In 1999, Debbie Avey founded Ace International as a high school foreign exchange program, bringing French students to the United States for homestays with local families. The program began with 15 students and grew to host up to 500 students annually. Ace's program emphasizes cultural exploration, hospitality, and tourism. For host families, most from North County, Ace's homestay program provides exposure to French culture and an opportunity to create lasting friendships. Debbie led Ace until 2022, fostering international friendships for many years. She recently passed the company to her daughter, Trisha Avey, and Trisha's fiancé, Shawn Ketcher.
Meet the Owners
Shawn and Trisha currently reside in Vista with their three children. Their family is excited to lead this non-profit organization and continue expanding Ace International by bringing students to North San Diego County. They are passionate about hospitality and changing lives, recognizing that Ace International helps families and students build lifelong friendships. Students ultimately return to their home countries with a positive impression of life in the U.S.A.
We believe that hosting an exchange student enriches families' lives in unexpected ways. The greatest benefit of cultural exchange is the network of lifelong friends that spans the globe. Students often stay connected with their host families for years, and host families may even visit their student's home country. By welcoming a student, you open the door to new relationships and experiences. You give them the gift of experiencing a new culture while feeling safe, supported, and part of a family. We believe that not everyone can travel abroad, so we bring the mission fields home." Join us in making a difference in these kids lives.
