With three young children and two busy careers, Adam and Eden Climo of Southport have their hands full. And Eden explained in a recent interview, having infant twins made it even harder to find childcare. Then they learned about how to have some help move in with them. That help came from Cultural Care Au Pair, a national organization that places young adults in U.S. homes.

Asked about the advantages of being a host family, Eden, who is self-employed, explained that she and Adam need flexible childcare schedules. And in their experience, having an au pair is not unattainable. She estimated the cost to be about half that of traditional daycare. 

In 2023 after they learned that another Southport family had an au pair, the Climos joined the program and welcomed Sara Putrone from Italy. "We became extremely close," Eden said. When Sara's two years with the family were over, the Climos sought another au pair and, six months ago, Kim Clages became the newest member of the Climo household. 

"There was serendipity around the meeting," Eden explained. "Kim has an outgoing personality and she's a good match energy-wise for our family. Being part of the au pair program has been such a fun and helpful part of our life."

Clages agrees. This year, she nominated the Climos for the Host Family of the Year award. With over 300 nominations, they placed as one of 15 finalists and the close bond between Kim and her host family is clear from the nomination essay. "The way they manage life with so much love to give is just incredible and deserves an award," she wrote. "I love them so much already and can’t wait to make lifelong memories with them." 

According to Cultural Care Au Pair's Elsa Scott, the organization provides young adults between 18-26 years old from 21 countries; about 90% are women. The au pair candidates must have a high school education or equivalent at least, prior childcare experience and a driver's license. The au pair cannot work more than 45 hours each week and must have one to one and a half days off.

The au pairs are required to have a J-1 Visa which is issued under the U.S. Exchange Visitor Program for  "... the purpose of teaching, instructing or lecturing, studying, observing, conducting research, consulting, demonstrating special skills, receiving training, or to receive graduate medical education or training," as described on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website.

While here, each au pair must earn six education credits. The host family must pay for a portion of the au pair's educational requirements. 

The goal of the program is for the au pair and the host family to learn about each other's culture. Clages' very positive experience is evident in her essay. "They make me feel seen and appreciated every day. We check on each other and tell each other about the best thing that happened every day. They tell me how much they appreciate me dealing with the kids and just whatever I do, they let me know and show me how much they appreciate me being a new family member." 

Eden agrees. "This is so much more than childcare," she explained. "It enriches your life and your child's life with a bond that will be there forever. They become members of your family."