Listed below are the youth programs of the many Rotary International Programs. For a full list and description of all RI Programs, click here to visit the official RI Programs website.
Youthact stands for Youth in Action. The emblem of Youthact, the letter “Y” overlaying an atomic like symbol, stands for the beginning of the path youth take in life, just like the atomic symbol stands for the beginning of all matter. Youthact is for a program developed by Rotarians, like Interact, but for youth ages 11 to 14. Many Rotarians contend that their most satisfying Rotary experiences have come from working with young people – whether it be by guiding them on the path to good citizenship, preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow, or introducing them to the world beyond their own community or country. One of the most effective ways that Rotary clubs have contributed to the development of its community’s youth is by sponsoring an Interact club, a service organization for young people, ages 14-18. It has come to the attention of many Rotarians that many youth start developing their social skills and the direction they take in life, at a younger age.
For over ten years Rotary clubs around the world have sponsored clubs for youth, ages 11-14. These clubs have used a variety of names such as Jr. Interact, Life Club and many others. Youthact is a name chosen by some Rotary Districts, as a name for such clubs. This name falls in line with the current clubs, Rotaract and Interact, adopted by Rotary International.
The purpose of Youthact clubs is for the Rotarians to have a hands-on interaction with youth, in a positive, life-affirming context, that will provide experiences that build independence, self-esteem, trust, and positivism; while having fun, learning important life skills, and providing services to the community. Through serving as role models and friends to the Youthact members, Rotarians are involved in a proactive process to help prevent experimentation and use of drugs and alcohol. All Youthact activities are planned and executed by the members, with the Rotarians serving as a support structure to assist the youth.
Like Interact club, Youthact clubs are sponsored by a local Rotary club. Some Interact clubs, also are co-sponsors. The Interact club participates in joint activities with the Youthact club. They act as mentors and role models. Youthact members become friends with the Interact members, and join Interact when they become older.
Each year, thousands of young people take part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) program worldwide. Young people ages 14-30 chosen for their leadership potential attend an all-expenses-paid seminar, camp, or workshop to discuss leadership skills and to learn those skills through practice. Rotary clubs and districts select participants and facilitate the event’s curriculum.
Here at District 5170, RYLArians are chosen by their local Rotary clubs and attend RYLA at Camp Campbell in the early summer for one week. If you’d like to go to RYLA, contact your local club officers or Rotary club for more information.
As a Rotary Youth Exchange student, you will spend a year, or perhaps just an extended period of time, living with a host family in a country other than your own. You may learn a new language; you will learn a new way of living and a great deal about yourself. But there’s more. While you are busy learning, the people you meet will be learning as well — about your country, culture, and ideas. You will be an ambassador. You will be helping to bring the world closer together, and you’ll be making good friends in the process.
If you are ready for the challenge and the rewards of living in another land as an exchange student, then you are ready to discover new worlds through the Rotary Youth Exchange. For more information, visit the Youth Exchange website
Rotaract is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30. Rotaract clubs are usually community-based or university-based and are sponsored by a local Rotary club making them true “partners in service” and key members of the Rotary family.
Through the Rotaract program, young adults not only augment their knowledge and skills, but they also address the physical and social needs of their communities while promoting international understanding and peace through a framework of friendship and service.
All Rotaract efforts begin at the local grassroots level and Rotaract clubs have access to many of the resources of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation.
