International Exchange Program
The Funeral Exchange Program is a joint initiative of OFSA and FIAT/IFTA (Fédération Internationale des Associations de Thanatologues - International Federation of Thanatologists Associations) whereby during a fixed time, funeral homes and mortuary schools/universities/and other funeral related educational learning institutions would agree to provide the opportunity for funeral personnel to travel abroad and engage in an international learning experience.
The goal of the Funeral Exchange Program is for funeral related participants by means of observation and participation within a funeral establishment of another country to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the culture, religious and funeral practices, customs and lifestyles of that country in order that they might be more effective in serving the needs of similar families from that country in their own funeral establishments.
Only OFSA members along with students from Humber College and College Boreal in their respective funeral service education programs, and FIAT-IFTA members may be considered as Program participants for the Funeral Exchange Program.
Other Provincial Associations outside of Ontario located throughout Canada may also participate in the exchange program providing they are members of FIAT-IFTA either directly or as a member of a funeral association that is a member of FIAT-IFTA and would be enrolling Individuals directly with the Host Organization.