Rotary International - Youth Exchange

Youth Exchange

Description:

Rotary Youth Exchange is a program that allows young adults to spend up to a year attending school in a foreign country while serving as ambassadors for our community, Montana, Rotary International and the United States. At the same time, the program allows a young person from the exchange country to come to Montana and, while attending school here, enjoy full exposure to our culture, both local and national.

Results we want:

 To promote international understanding and peace by providing safe, enjoyable exchanges.

 For students traveling to foreign countries (referred to as “outbound students”): we wish them to learn first hand about all aspects of life in a foreign country. Immersion in another country’s language, educational system, and culture will enhance their academic and personal growth.

 students coming to Montana (referred to as “incoming students”): likewise we hope they will learn all about life in America and, specifically, Montana. Also, host clubs and families, and the entire community will be enriched by extended, friendly contact with someone from a different culture.

 General Standards:

 Rotary Youth Exchange requires closely coordinated work between the local clubs and the District. At the club level, applications are accepted for outbound students, host families selected for the incoming youngsters, students enrolled in school, allowances provided, and all background checks provided. The District selects which students will travel to which countries, provides all training prior to departure, and all follow-up work needed upon the student’s return. Also, the District provides for the arrival of all incoming students. The District also handles all contacts with the Dept. of State and Homeland Security.

 The following countries are currently exchange partners with our District: Austria, Brazil, Ecuador, France, and Taiwan.

 The District website has further information including District YE contacts.

 Current Needs:

 At the time our club begins accepting applications, we will need a Youth Exchange Committee comprised of the following:

     - an outgoing coordinator

     - an incoming coordinator (works with host families)

     - a counselor for the incoming student (liaison with school, doles out allowances, etc.)

     - the club Risk Management Officer

 We will also need budgeting.

 Contact:   Scott Johnson 550-1811 or Kurt Ingold 549-4148