For Rotary Exchange year 2017-2018, District 6650 has 16 students currently preparing to participate in the Outbound Youth Exchange Program. It has been our policy not to deny a student this wonderful opportunity merely because he or she cannot afford the costs associated with the program. Even though Rotary’s exchange student program is one of the most affordable, the cost is significant, averaging approximately $7,000 per student.
In order to financially assist some of the students accepted into the program, the Youth Exchange Committee established a scholarship fund in 2014. Thanks to the generosity of many clubs, and individual Rotarians, we were able to raise funds to assist our Outbound students in need.
We are again asking clubs and individual Rotarians to support the scholarship fund. The scholarships have a significant impact on a student’s ability to participate in the program by removing some of the financial burdens associated with airfare, health insurance, and other fees. All funds awarded are paid directly to the service providers after the prospective Outbound student successfully completes the training required to participate in the program.
We cannot award these scholarships without the support of our clubs and individual Rotarians. We ask that you again consider donating to this worthy cause. Even if your club is not participating in YEP by sponsoring an Outbound or hosting an Inbound student, a donation to the scholarship fund is another great way to support YEP. Donations may be made payable to District 6650 YEP and mailed to Bonnie Davis at 49682 McClure Road, East Palestine, Ohio 44413. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bill Wood at (330) 284-4779 or Aletha Carver at (330) 614-1367.