Rotary Youth Exchange Builds Global Connections in District 7450

Rotary District 7450 is proud to participate in Rotary Youth Exchange, a program that gives young people the opportunity to experience another culture firsthand. Through long-term and short-term exchanges, students and host families build lasting relationships, develop language skills, and advance Rotary’s commitment to international understanding and peace.

This year, District 7450 is welcoming two inbound students. Emme, from Belgium, is being hosted by the Northeast Philadelphia–Cheltenham–Rockledge Club, while Hestia, from Taiwan, is being hosted by the Upper Darby–Lansdowne Club. The district also has one outbound student: Patrick, sponsored by the Abington at Edge Hill Club, is spending his exchange in Belgium.

Host a student for 4 months or the entire school year

District 7450 is seeking host families for inbound students during the 2027–2028 school year. Families generally host a student for about four months, making the experience accessible while still allowing time for meaningful bonds to form. Hosting is a rewarding way to share everyday life, learn about another culture, and make cultural exchange personal.

Applications are also open for the 2027–2028 long-term exchange. American students accepted into the program live abroad with local families for the school year, gaining independence, learning a new language or deepening one they already study, and contributing to peacebuilding through cross-cultural understanding. Program costs typically range from $6,000 to $10,000. Students and families interested in applying can contact Sarah Tuberty, District 7450 Youth Exchange Chair and Outbound Coordinator at sarah.tuberty.rotary@gmail.com or go to ExchangeStudent.org.

Host a summer exchange

Applications are open for the Short-Term Exchange Program (STEP) as well. A recent exchange paired Vee, an American student, with Selin from Germany. Vee’s family welcomed Selin into their home for three weeks during the summer, and the students explored the Shore and took part in a Fourth of July apple pie-making contest. Vee then traveled to Selin’s home in Germany, where they explored local destinations and traveled in the Netherlands. STEP takes place during the summer and uses a one-to-one match of same-gender teens, who spend approximately six to eight weeks together while sharing life in each other’s countries.

Help spread the word

Every Rotary club in District 7450 can help expand the reach of Youth Exchange. Share the program with club members and affiliated Interact clubs, encourage eligible students to apply, and identify families who may be willing to host. Each introduction, application, and open home helps young people discover the world—and helps Rotary District 7450 strengthen peace and friendship across borders.