Rotary Friendship Exchange EXIT

Rotary Friendship Exchange Rotary Friendship Exchange is one of Rotary International’s nine structured programs designed to help clubs and districts achieve their service goals in their own communities and in communities abroad, fostering fellowship and goodwill in the process. EXIT

What is Friendship Exchange? Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program for Rotarians and their families that provides participants with the opportunity to experience other cultures by staying in the homes of Rotarians in other countries. EXIT

Friendship Exchange Goals Advance international understanding and peace through personal contact across borders. Develop interclub relationships for fellowship and service projects. Offer Rotarians the opportunity to make long- lasting friendships while exploring different areas of the world. EXIT

Building Friendship Exchange Interested Rotarians must apply through their club president, who will inform them if their district participates in the program. District chairs work with their counterparts around the world to organize all aspects of exchanges. RI produces a list of district Friendship Exchange chairs bimonthly to help with communication.district Friendship Exchange chairs EXIT

Types of Exchanges Visitor Program Individual Rotarians, who may be accompanied by family members, spend a few days in the home of a Rotarian in another country. Team Program Rotarian couples, typically four to six, visit several communities in a host district for up to one month. Uni-vocational Host and guest Rotarians of the same occupation observe how their job is done in other countries. EXIT

Friendship Exchange Guidelines A Rotarian must always accompany his or her spouse or children on an exchange. An exchange may take place at any time of the year and for any duration as long as the both the guest and host districts have agreed upon the details. It is recommended that a reciprocal exchange is arranged the same year or in a successive year. EXIT

Itineraries Exchanges incorporate a wide array of social events, local activities, and leisure time. Each itinerary is different but will most likely include attending a Rotary meeting or gathering in the host district. EXIT

Other Activities Touring scenic areas, historical sites, museums, and galleries Viewing and participating in sporting events, concerts, and nightlife activities EXIT

District Chair Responsibilities Promote the program within the district. Help plan itineraries for participants. Maintain records on exchange participants and potential hosts for future exchanges. Communicate with the district governor and the clubs in the district when developing Friendship Exchanges. EXIT

Participate Meet Rotarians from other countries and learn about their culture firsthand. Arrange international service projects directly with Rotarians in another country. EXIT

Resources The following resources are available on the RI Web site: Rotary Friendship Exchange section Rotary Friendship Exchange Handbook Rotary Friendship Exchange staff Rotary E-Learning Center EXIT