Become a Host Family for Rotary Exchange Students
In a world where cultural exchange and mutual understanding are more crucial than ever, the Rotary Club of Fonthill proudly continues its tradition of participating in the Rotary International cultural youth exchange program. Every year, this program opens doors for over 8000 youth aged 15-18, offering them the opportunity to explore and live in countries across the globe.
At the heart of the Rotary Youth Exchange program lies a noble mission: the promotion of world peace and understanding. Young individuals from our communities eagerly apply and are carefully selected and prepared to embark on a life-changing journey, spending up to a year immersed in a foreign culture. While these adventurous souls venture abroad, the sponsoring Rotary Clubs, including the Rotary Club of Fonthill, extend their hospitality to students from foreign lands, introducing them to the richness of Canadian and North American cultures.
"After experiencing a year abroad, our exchange students return home brimming with excitement and newfound appreciation for global diversity," says Mike Taylor, Rotary Youth Exchange Officer. "Their journey not only enriches their lives but also fosters a deeper understanding of our interconnected world."
Now, more than ever, we invite members of our community who share our vision of promoting world peace and understanding to consider the invaluable opportunity of hosting one of these exceptional students. Whether for a period of three months or longer, hosting a Rotary exchange student offers a unique chance to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion while providing a nurturing environment for young minds to flourish.
We asked some of our past inbound student participants what they would say to potential new host families and here are some of their reflections.