About Youth Exchange

Discover the life-changing program that creates global citizens

What is Rotary Youth Exchange?

Rotary Youth Exchange is one of Rotary International's most impactful programs. Each year, thousands of students between the ages of 15-19 participate in exchanges to over 100 countries around the world.

The program's goals are to promote international understanding and peace by enabling young people to live with host families and attend schools in foreign countries, while serving as ambassadors for their home countries.

About Districts 5710 & 5680

Rotary Districts 5710 & 5680 cover Kansas. We have been participating in the Youth Exchange program for many years, sending our local students abroad and welcoming international students to our communities.

Our district is made up of dedicated Rotarians who believe in the power of cultural exchange to build bridges between nations and develop future leaders.

Find a Club in Your District

District 5710 View Clubs → District 5680 View Clubs →

District Map

District 5710 (Eastern Kansas)    District 5680 (Central & Western Kansas)

Program Benefits

  • Learn a new language through immersion
  • Develop independence and self-confidence
  • Gain a global perspective
  • Make lifelong friendships
  • Enhance college applications
  • Experience a new culture firsthand
  • Become a more adaptable person
  • Join a worldwide network of alumni

How It Works

  1. Apply through your local Rotary club
  2. Complete interviews and orientation
  3. Get matched with a host district abroad
  4. Attend pre-departure training
  5. Travel to your host country
  6. Live with 2-3 host families during the year
  7. Attend school and participate in activities
  8. Return home as a global citizen

The Four-Way Test

Rotary's guiding principles apply to everything we do, including Youth Exchange:

1

Is it the TRUTH?

2

Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3

Will it build GOODWILL and better friendships?

4

Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Student Protection

The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. Our program includes:

  • Thorough screening of all host families
  • Background checks for all adult volunteers
  • 24/7 emergency support contacts
  • Regular check-ins with students
  • Trained Rotarian counselors assigned to each student
  • Comprehensive orientation programs
  • Clear rules and expectations

Exchange in Action

Exchange student experience in Brazil, 2015
Exchange students in the USA, 2022
Exchange student experience in Brazil, 2023
Exchange student experience in Peru, 2024

Want to Learn More?

Contact us to find out how you can participate in this amazing program.

Contact Us