YOUTH SERVICES

This committee is focused on activities that promote positive change in youth and young adults by involving them in leadership development activities, community and international service, and exchange programs that enrich and foster world peace and cultural understanding.  Programs include RYLA, Rotoract, Interact, and Rotary Youth Exchange.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary's leadership training program for young people.  RYLA participants can be ages 14-30, but most clubs and districts choose to focus on a narrower age range, such as 14-18 or 19-30.

Rotoract is a Rotary sponsored service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30.  Rotaract clubs are either community or university based, and they are sponsored by a local Rotary club, making them true "partners in service" and key members of the family of Rotary.

Interact is Rotary International's service club for young people ages 12 to 18.  Interact clubs are sponsored by individual Rotary clubs, which provide support and guidance, but they are self-governing and self-supporting.

Rotary Youth Exchange students spend up to a year living with host families and attending school in a different country.  Whether the student participates in Rotary's long-term (up to a year) or short-term (four weeks in the summer) programs, they will learn a new way of living, a great deal about themselves, and maybe even a new language.  The Exchange Student will be an ambassador, teaching people about their country, culture, and ideas.  They will help bring the world closer and make good friends in the process!

We welcome Rotary members to join this new and exciting avenue of service targeting our youth.