Youth Exchange Program Kicks Off an Exciting New Year
This past weekend, our Youth Exchange Program proudly hosted the first-ever joint Inbound Orientation between Rotary Districts 5680 and 5710 for the 2026-2027 class of exchange students. Seven students representing Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, and Thailand gathered for a fun-filled weekend of fellowship, cultural exchange, and learning. The event began with several members of our Youth Exchange leadership team welcoming the students and introducing them to the program, followed by a taco bar lunch at a local Mexican restaurant. The afternoon was spent swimming and enjoying recreational activities before the group settled in for an overnight stay, creating lasting friendships and strengthening the bonds that will support them throughout their exchange year. We were also honored to have District 5710 Governor Michelle Sink in attendance. Michelle actively participated in the weekend's activities and spent time getting to know our inbound students, helping make the orientation both welcoming and memorable.
On the Outbound front, we are excited to report that all six of our 2026-2027 outbound students have successfully departed and begun their exchange experiences. These students are now embarking on life-changing journeys in Argentina, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Thailand. As they immerse themselves in new cultures, languages, and communities, they will serve as ambassadors of Rotary, their families, and our district. We look forward to following their adventures and watching them grow through the unique opportunities that Rotary Youth Exchange provides.
We are also excited to announce the launch of our new Youth Exchange Program website. Designed as a comprehensive resource for students, parents, host families, and Rotarians, the website provides information about the program, application requirements, hosting opportunities, important forms, and key contacts. We encourage anyone interested in learning more about Rotary Youth Exchange to visit Rotary Youth Exchange - Districts 5710 & 5680 at https://rotaryyouthexchangekansas.org and explore the many benefits of this life-changing program. Whether you are a potential exchange student or considering becoming a host family, the website is a great place to begin your Youth Exchange journey.
If you’re interested or have any questions about our Program, please reach out to one of us:
Stephen Wheatley, District 5710 YEO, at rotary5710ye@gmail.com
Anne Faucett, District Outbound Coordinator, at annefaucett33@gmail.com;
Cleverson Souza, District Inbound Coordinator, at inbound5710@gmail.com.
We are now starting a new exchange year and it is time for clubs to locate students that wish to go on an exchange for the 2027-28 school year. We now have a website for you to direct students to. This can be found at www.rotaryyouthexchangekansas.org We will be conducting the District interview in Lenexa on December 12th. District applications are due by December 1st and are done online. The district personnel are here to help with any questions you may have.