Celebrating 50 Years of Youth Exchange: Transforming Lives Through Cultural Understanding
Published on 5/15/2025
This year marks the 50th anniversary of our district's participation in the Rotary Youth Exchange program, one of the world's most respected cultural exchange initiatives. Since 1975, we've facilitated life-changing experiences for more than 2,000 young people.
"The Youth Exchange program creates global citizens and future leaders," explained District Youth Exchange Chair Michael Chen. "Many of our alumni have gone on to become Rotarians themselves, continuing the cycle of service and international understanding."
To celebrate this milestone, the district is hosting a reunion gala on August 15th, bringing together host families, exchange students, and program alumni from across five decades. The event will also launch a new scholarship fund to ensure the program remains accessible to students from all economic backgrounds.