Youth Services
Rotary believes in developing the next generation of leaders. Our programs help younger leaders build leadership skills, expand education and learn the value of service.
Rotary Youth Exchange
Ages 15-18
Youth Exchange is a study-abroad opportunity that lasts anywhere from a few weeks to a full year. As a Rotary Youth Exchange student, you'll spend a year living with host families and attending school in a different country.
You will learn a new way of living, a great deal about yourself, and maybe even a new language. You'll be an ambassador, teaching people you meet about your country, culture, and ideas. You can help bring the world closer - and make some good friends in the process.
For over 75 years, students and host families have broadened their horizons through Rotary Youth Exchange. More than 80 counries and over 8,000 students each year participate in the program, which is administered at the regional level by Rotary districts and at the local level by Rotary Clubs.
Adventures in Citizenship
Ages 16-18
Students from across Canada meet with political leaders and senior officials from the Ottawa area to learn about our democrat Institutions, diversity of Canada and the privileges and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship.
Rotaract
Ages 18-30
Rotaract 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're sponsored by a local Rotary club. This makes them true "partners in service" and key members of the family of Rotary.
As one of Rotary's most significant and fastest-growing service programs, with more than 7,000 clubs in about 163 countries and geographical areas, Rotaract has become a worldwide phenomenon.
How does it work?
All Rotaract efforts begin at the local, grassroots level, with members addressing their communities' physical and social needs while promoting international understanding and peace through a framework of friendship and service.
What are some other opportunities available to Rotaractors? Rotaractors may also:
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Assist in organizing Interact clubs or mentor Interactors
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Participate in Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
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Become Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholars or Group Study Exchange team members
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Seek membership in their local Rotary club
RYLA
Ages 19-25
RYLA is an acronym for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. RYLA is leadership training for young adults (19-25 years) led by a professional facilitator experienced in youth leadership development and supported by RYLA graduates and Rotarians;
One week residential program on a college/university campus consisting of lectures, simulation games, discussion groups, committee work, public speaking, social activities;
An opportunity to learn, grow, share ideas, have fun and make new friends.