Members of the Springfield Rotary Club recently welcomed Carrie Mobus, a Bellows Falls Rotarian, who shared how Rotary's Youth Exchange program changes the lives of young people while fostering international understanding and lifelong friendships.
Carrie is a member of the Rotary District 7870 Youth Exchange Committee, a former exchange student to Peru, and a sibling host to multiple inbound exchange students.
Mobus explained that Rotary Youth Exchange gives high school students the opportunity to spend an academic year abroad or participate in a shorter exchange during the summer. Students live with host families, attend local schools, learn new languages, and immerse themselves in another culture while serving as ambassadors for their home communities.
"Rotary Youth Exchange is much more than a travel opportunity," Mobus said. "It helps students develop confidence, independence, leadership skills, and a broader understanding of the world. The relationships they build often last a lifetime."
Rotary Youth Exchange has connected young people across the globe for decades, promoting peace and goodwill through cultural exchange. Students from more than 100 countries participate each year through Rotary's international network of clubs and districts.
Mobus also described the important role local Rotary clubs and host families play in supporting exchange students during their stay. Host families provide a welcoming home, while Rotarians offer mentorship and help students become involved in their communities.
Springfield Rotary members learned about the application process, eligibility requirements, and opportunities for local families interested in hosting an international student.
To learn more about Rotary Youth Exchange, visit https://www.rotary.org/get-involved/youth-programs/rotary-youth-exchange
The Springfield Rotary Club meets Tuesdays at noon at the SAPCC Workforce Development & Training Center. Guests and prospective members are always welcome. Anyone interested in learning more about the Springfield Rotary Club is encouraged to visit the club’s website https://springfieldvtrotary.org/
