Massachusetts, USA
Hi! My name is Lara and I am an Apex Care Professional and trained Physical Therapist from Germany.
Since April 2025, I have been living with my host family in Lexington, near Boston in the state of Massachusetts. If I had to put these past months into words, I would describe them as some of the most unforgettable and beautiful times of my life. What originally began as an exchange year quickly developed into something much greater: a second home, a family that has had a lasting impact on my life.
From the very beginning, my host parents, W. and N., welcomed me with a warmth that exceeded anything I could have imagined. Already in the first few days, I felt that I was not “just the CP,” but a true member of the family. Especially considering that I am their first CP and, in general, their first experience with an au pair living with them full-time, this meant so much to me. Their house is not just a place to live, but a space filled with warmth, laughter, trust, and mutual respect. After my first road trips, I always knew that I was coming home—to a place where I am seen, heard, and truly appreciated.
What has impressed me most is how strongly we have grown together as a family. Even though we come from different countries and cultures, living together felt surprisingly natural from the very beginning. We share our everyday lives, eat together, have conversations, laugh a lot, and support each other—both in good times and in difficult moments. This deep sense of togetherness helped me especially during phases of homesickness. And although I naturally miss my family back home, I felt so safe and secure here that I decided to extend my time abroad—something I would never have done without this truly exceptional host family.
A very special place in my heart belongs to the three host kids: one girl and two boys. Without a doubt, they are the sweetest, funniest, and most loving children I know. Each of them has their own unique personality, and that is exactly what makes them so special. The oldest son is 11 years old and has cerebral palsy. He is an incredibly strong, joyful, and inspiring boy who shows me every single day how much courage and love for life a person can have. The way this family treats one another is characterized by patience, humor, and unconditional love—something that has deeply moved and impressed me.
My host parents do far more than “just” being great parents. They are actively involved in advocating for children with special needs—not only for their own son, but for many other families as well. W. and N. have extensive foundational knowledge about their son’s condition and use it to educate others, offer support, and fight for better opportunities. Their commitment to issues such as accessibility—like making flying easier for wheelchair users—shows how much they think beyond their own daily lives. They give children with special needs a voice, and that is exactly what makes them so extraordinary.
I myself have also grown tremendously during this time. My English has improved enormously—not only linguistically, but also in my confidence to express myself. I have become more independent, more responsible, and more mature. Living in such an open and supportive family has taught me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace challenges, and understand new perspectives. Especially the daily life with a child with special needs has profoundly shaped my understanding of inclusion, patience, and empathy.
For me, W. and N. are not just host parents, but true role models. Their warmth, their dedication, and their ability to treat every person with respect and openness have had a deep impact on me. They show every single day what it truly means to live family life—not through perfection, but through love, unity, and mutual support.
This host family is, for me, the embodiment of what the “Best Host Family” award represents. They have given me far more than just a place to stay—they have given me a home, memories for a lifetime, and values that I will carry with me forever. I am endlessly grateful for this experience, and I cannot imagine a family that deserves this award more than mine! 🙂
Start Your Own Apex Journey
At Apex Social, we believe in care that transforms, not just for the children we serve, but for everyone involved. If you’re inspired by the Hoffer family’s story, now is the time to start your own Apex Social journey.
Interested in becoming a host family and welcoming compassionate care into your home?
