Who we are
District 6420 has been participating in the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) program since the 1970s when Rotary International made it an official program. The District strongly believes in the program and that it is changing the world one student at a time.
Did you know?
No one in Rotary gets paid -
We do this simply because we love it!
Types of Rotary Youth Exchange
Short Term Exchange
The Short Term Rotary Youth Exchange program offers students aged 15–19 a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture through a summer exchange, typically lasting several weeks. Unlike the long-term program, short-term exchanges are often family-to-family, allowing students to live with a host family abroad and then reciprocate by welcoming their exchange partner into their own home. These experiences foster global friendships, build intercultural understanding, and help young people develop independence, confidence, and a broader worldview. Participants return home with lifelong memories, fresh perspectives, and stronger leadership and communication skills—ready to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Long Term Exchange
The Long Term Rotary Youth Exchange program is a transformative experience for students aged 15–18.5, offering a full academic year abroad where they live with one or more host families and attend school in their host country. This immersive journey fosters personal growth, resilience, and deep cultural understanding as students become part of daily life in a new environment. Beyond language acquisition and academic enrichment, participants build lifelong global friendships, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a profound appreciation for diverse perspectives. As ambassadors of goodwill, these young people often return home with greater maturity, empathy, and a broadened view of the world—ready to lead, inspire, and bridge communities across cultures.
“If every 17 year old were a youth exchange student, we would have no wars.”
What makes Rotary Youth Exchange different?
Rotary Youth Exchange stands out from other youth exchange programs in several meaningful ways:
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Rotary’s program is notably more affordable because it’s run entirely by volunteers. Unlike some programs that charge high administrative fees, Rotary focuses on accessibility and community support. Students typically live with 2–3 host families throughout the year, offering a broader cultural experiences, and deeper personal connections
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While other programs may allow students to choose their destination, Rotary often uses a placement process guided by Rotarians and former exchange students to match participants with countries where they’ll thrive—even if it’s not their first choice. This approach emphasizes personal growth and adaptability.
Our ethos is that isn’t about where you are placed, rather the experience had. -
Rotary provides a strong support network through local clubs and counselors who stay connected with students and families throughout the exchange. Regular events like Rotary weekends and regional trips help build camaraderie among exchange students, which some other programs may offer less frequently.
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Rotary’s stringent youth protection policies and district certification requirements ensure student safety is a top priority. Host families are thoroughly vetted and unpaid, motivated by goodwill rather than compensation. Each Rotary district has committed to a structure that is placed around the student to see the student thrive.
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Rotary emphasizes students as ambassadors of goodwill, fostering peace and understanding across cultures. This mission-driven focus can be especially appealing to students who want their exchange to be more than just travel—it’s about making a difference.
Together we are better
We are a Member of a Multi-district
Central States Rotary Youth Exchange (CSRYE) is a world-renowned multi-district made up of 20 districts in the USA and Canada. We work in collaboration to send and receive students, share best practices and compliance, and conduct training. The years of success of this program are the result of the quality of leadership in Central States and the supreme dedication of the District Chairmen, Correspondents, and District Governors within the U.S., Canada, and overseas. We are united in collaborative efforts to provide students with the most memorable year of their lives, hoping that one day, this experience may contribute to the ultimate goal of world understanding and peace.