Programs | Rotary Foundation of Washington, DC
Rotary's Youth Programs
Shaping Tomorrow's Change-Makers
Rotary Foundation's Youth Services focus on empowering the next generation and cultivating young leaders and problem solvers. With wide-ranging programs that include youth clubs, career fairs and international exchange, our initiatives ignite a passion for leadership, service, and global understanding.
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A legacy of nurturing young leaders since 1929
Broad Age Range
Catering to youth and young adults aged 12 to 30
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Widespread participation of students in programs
Diverse Programs
Both short-term projects and full academic year exchanges
Cultivating Young Leaders
Interact Clubs
Interact clubs offer a dynamic space for youth aged 12-18, focusing on leadership development and global awareness. Through service projects and various activities, these clubs encourage young people to explore their potential, understand diverse cultures, and actively participate in community betterment.
Nurturing Leadership in Youth
Rotary Youth
Leadership Awards (RYLA)
RYLA is an engaging leadership program designed for youth eager to develop new skills, boost their confidence, and enjoy enriching experiences. Ranging from one-day seminars to weeklong camps, RYLA offers an exciting mix of learning and fun, aimed at molding future leaders.
Discovering Career Paths
Rotary
Career Fair
The Rotary Career Fair, hosted by the DC Rotary Foundation at Richard Wright Schools, introduces students in grades 10 through 12 to diverse career opportunities. Attendees engage with professionals from various fields, gaining valuable insights into potential career paths. The event features small group presentations, networking opportunities, and information about internships and career prospects.
Building Global Citizens
Rotary Youth Exchange
The Rotary Youth Exchange program is a unique opportunity for students aged 15-19 to immerse themselves in new cultures. Participants learn new languages, experience different customs, and grow into global citizens. Sponsored in over 100 countries, this program fosters peace and international understanding, one student at a time.
How to Apply
Apply to Interact Clubs
To kickstart an Interact club, follow these straightforward steps
Download Guides
Download the Interact Guide for Rotary Club Sponsors and Advisers or the Interact Guide for Interactors to learn how to
Charter Your Club with Rotary International
- Organize Your Club: Once you’ve gathered your members and elected officers, the next step is to officially charter your club with Rotary International.
- No Charter Fee: There’s no cost involved in applying for a charter.
- Complete the Certification Form: Fill out the Interact Club Certification Form (PDF) accurately.
- Submit the Form: Email the completed form to interact@rotary.org or send it to your region’s international office.
Plan an RYLA Event
Organizing a successful Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) event involves several steps to ensure an impactful experience for young leaders.
Download Handbook
Your primary resource for planning is the RYLA Handbook. This comprehensive guide covers organizing a planning committee, drafting a budget, developing your program, and crafting an effective evaluation strategy.
Collaborate with District Leaders
The success of RYLA events often hinges on collaboration with district governors, RYLA chairs, and district RYLA committees. These leaders work together to plan and execute events. To become a part of this process or to contribute your ideas, reach out to your district leaders.
Support for District RYLA Chairs
If you’re a district RYLA chair, there’s a wealth of support available to you. From program updates and event ideas to promotional strategies, you have resources at your disposal. Additionally, the district RYLA chair directory can help you connect with counterparts globally. Ensure your role is reported in My Rotary under Club and District Administration for full access to these resources. For further support, contact the RYLA team directly at ryla@rotary.org.
Apply for the
Rotary Youth Exchange Program
Join Youth Exchange
If you’re eager to embark on an enriching cultural exchange through Rotary’s Youth Exchange program, here’s how to get started:
- Contact a Local Rotary Club: Reach out to your local Rotary club to inquire about available exchange opportunities and to understand the application process specific to your area.
Rotary Clubs Looking to Participate
Rotary members, their families, and the community play a vital role in the success of the Youth Exchange program:
- Learn About the Program: Start by familiarizing yourself with the program through the Youth Exchange Handbook (PDF). This resource provides comprehensive information about the program.
- Connect with District Leaders: Get in touch with your district leaders to explore specific opportunities available for your club in the Youth Exchange program.
Districts Seeking Certification
To ensure a safe and successful exchange experience, districts need to be certified by Rotary International:
- Review Certification Requirements: The Youth Exchange Handbook (PDF) details the requirements for certification and outlines the application process.
- Collaborate with District Leaders: Consult with key district officials like the Youth Exchange chair and the youth protection officer to evaluate your district’s readiness for participation.
- Learn More About Certification: For more information on the certification process, reach out to the Rotary team at youthexchange@rotary.org.
Apply for the New Generations
Service Exchange Program
Service Exchange Program
Rotary clubs have the opportunity to craft impactful service exchange programs that align members' skills with professionals from different cultures.
Interested in Participating?
- University Students and Young Professionals: If you’re a university student or a professional up to age 30, you’re invited to apply. Rotary membership isn’t a prerequisite.
- Contact Local Rotary Clubs: Find out about available exchange opportunities and the application process by getting in touch with your local Rotary club.
Emphasizing Service in the Exchange
A successful exchange should enable participants to acquire and apply new skills:
- Join Community Service Projects: Involve participants in local service projects for skill development and networking.
- Expand Vocational Training: Integrate international participants into vocational programs, providing practical service experience.
- Incorporate Exchanges in Global Grants: Enhance global grant projects with exchange activities, offering young professionals chances to gain experience in project management.
- Plan Reciprocal Exchanges: Arrange exchanges of younger professionals or Rotaract members as part of international projects, fostering stronger international ties.
Applications and Program Formats
- Flexibility in Design: There’s no one-size-fits-all application form or program format, allowing clubs the freedom to tailor programs to the unique skills, interests, and needs of participants and the community.
Promoting Your Exchange Program
- Customized Promotional Materials: Use Rotary’s Brand Center to create promotional cards, posters, and banners, or work with licensed vendors for unique designs and materials.
Rotary’s Support: For any questions or guidance, reach out to Rotary at new.generations@rotary.org.
Discover How to give back
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Designate a portion of your estate to support our mission, empowering our community work.
Non-Cash Donations
Donate real estate or other assets
for tax benefits while advancing
our causes.
Beneficiary Designation
Support our work by naming us in retirement plans, insurance policies,
and annuities.
IRA Contributions
If you're 70.5 or older, donate up to $100,000 yearly from your IRA to
aid our efforts.
Take the first step in leaving a meaningful legacy today. Contact us at office@dcrotaryclub.org to learn how you can make a lasting difference through legacy giving with the Rotary Foundation of DC.
Discover How to give back
Begin
Your
Legacy
Giving
Journey
Will
Bequests
Designate a portion of your estate to support our mission, empowering our community work.
Non-Cash
Donations
Donate real estate or other assets
for tax benefits while advancing
our causes.
Beneficiary
Designation
Support our work by naming us in retirement plans, insurance policies,
and annuities.
IRA
Contributions
If you're 70.5 or older, donate up to $100,000 yearly from your IRA to
aid our efforts.
Take the first step in leaving a meaningful legacy today. Contact us at office@dcrotaryclub.org to learn how you can make a lasting difference through legacy giving with the Rotary Foundation of DC.
