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About Rotary | |
  
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What is the Rotary club?The
Rotary is a group of People who have a vision of a better
world. They are a Not-for-profit organization who rely on contributions
from generous people so that they can help people who really need
it. There are more than 30,000 clubs around the world devoted to
helping countries from poverty, hunger, illiteracy and violence
to name just a few. Rotary is a club that is nonpolitical, nonreligious
and open to all cultures, races and creeds.
Youth
Exchange Programs
Since 1927,
students and host families all over the world have had their horizons
broadened and their lives enriched by the generosity of Rotary's
Youth Exchange program. Administered by Rotary clubs, districts
and multidistrict groups, the program today involves more than 82
countries and over 8,000 students each year. A
Brazilian student makes her first snowman in Finland. A South African
masters eating with chopsticks at his Japanese hosts' home. An Australian
becomes part of an extended family in Russia, and a Mexican student
in France raises funds to benefit homeless children in Haiti. New
experiences, new "families" and friends, and new adventures
can await you, too.
As a Rotary
Youth Exchange student, you will spend a year, or maybe just an
extended period of time, living with a host family in a country
other than your own. You may learn a new language; you will learn
a new way of living and a great deal about yourself. But there's
more. While you are busy learning, the people you meet will be learning
as well — about your country, culture, and ideas. You will be an
ambassador. You will be helping to bring the world closer together,
and you'll be making good friends in the process. Rotary Youth
Exchange is one of the least expensive international exchange programs
open to high school-aged students. Because volunteers in Rotary
clubs and districts administer the Rotary Youth Exchange program,
you will not have to pay fees to an agency to arrange an exchange.
With Rotary,
you and your parents or guardians are responsible for: Room and board
while you are away will be provided by your host families, and your
host Rotary club will finance the tuition for required academic
programs. Also, on long-term exchanges, your host Rotary club will
provide you with a modest monthly allowance. Some Rotary clubs have
established scholarships for disadvantaged students to help fund
the cost of plane tickets and other expenses. Check with your local
Rotary club to see if they offer such assistance.
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