An outstanding program of sending and receiving secondary school pupils (boys and girls) between the ages of 15-17 for one academic year to a foreign country. A careful selection at club and district levels, plus an orientation of students and parents is essential.

Parents of outbound students furnish transportation costs, health, accident and liability insurance. Host parents of inbound students provide room, board and exercise the same parental responsibilities as would the exchangees’ own parents. The host clubs should provide a modest monthly allowance to the student, including lunch money while attending school.

RESTRICTIONS: Students are not allowed to travel outside the district without permission of club and district – not allowed to own or drive any motor vehicle. Student commitment: Agree in writing to all requirements – exemplary conduct – place themselves under the authority of host family and host Rotary Club.

As the Youth Exchange Program is not part of The Rotary Foundation, relatives of Rotarians are eligible to apply. The leadership of our District 5520 Youth Exchange Committee has been outstanding – a very time consuming, gratifying, exciting and fast growing part of the YOUTH programs in Rotary.

RYLA (ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD) - Two separate one-week camps are held annually in late July/early August at Tres Ritos, N.M., one for young men and one for young women, with leadership capabilities and who will be entering their junior or senior year of high school. The object of Camp RYLA is to provide an environment where future leaders will experience democratic living, be exposed to the challenges of life, and hear from leaders in business, military, religion, education and sports. Capacity is approximately 80-90 in each camp with 10-11 campers and two adult counselors living together as a team. The days are filled with activities and presentations by outstanding speakers. Transportation and tuition are paid by the sponsoring clubs.

INTERACT - Clubs for young people ages 14-18. Organized by Rotary Clubs to develop leadership, personal integrity, thoughtfulness, importance of home and family, respect for rights of others, dignity, the value of all useful occupations, and knowledge and understanding of community, national and world affairs.

YOUTH - Some clubs in District 5520 designate a Fifth Avenue of Service and appoint a chairperson to coordinate Service to Youth Programs.