Dee Eng, Emmaus Rotary Club member and the Friendship Exchange Chair for Rotary District 7430 presented on this program. District 7430 restarted this program in 2009 and since then they have conducted a dozen exchanges around the world. Dee gave details of some of these exchanges. The stories were very interesting and participants make many life long friends. A new idea that has just started is club to club exchange.
What is Friendship Exchange?
Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program for Rotary members and friends that allows participants to take turns hosting one another in their homes and clubs.
Participants may travel as individuals, couples, families, or groups, and may be Rotary members or not.
Benefits of an exchange
- Broaden international understanding
- Explore a profession or job in a different context
- Build enduring friendships
- Establish a foundation for peace and service
- Gain opportunities for active project involvement and support
- Learn about a region’s people, food, languages, customs, and history
- Find partners for grants
Choose a destination
Explore our Exchange Finder Map to view current exchange locations and the districts that serve them. Connect with the district’s Rotary Friendship Exchange chair for help finding potential international hosts and planning your itinerary.
Define your purpose
Friendship exchanges are organized around at least one of three themes: culture, service, and vocation.
Fund your exchange
All exchanges are paid for by the participants or their districts. Hosts are not expected to assume a significant financial burden. Club or district funds may be available to offset the costs of exchanges that have a vocational emphasis.
Share your story
After your trip, submit a report to your district, as well as to rotary.service@rotary.org. It’s your chance to tell us about your experience, make suggestions, and share what you learned.