Today was a Hillis Day - no guest speaker, but time allowed for fellowship and discussion of club issues.
Darren Wallace is our Youth Exchange Committee chairman, and briefed us on our long term involvement in this activity. We have had almost continuous exposure to student exchange and established a proud tradition.
Among the issues that we spoke about were hosting, and the need to have a full program in place before committing. The number of host parents to be involved is flexible, but shorter host terms means more hosts required.
Darren advised that hosts do not have to be Wollundry Rotarians, but a rigorous vetting process would be required.
The Exchange is a reciprocal, with an obligation to host a student if we sponsor an outgoing candidate.
There were questions about selection of students, role of club and district committees, the timeline for sponsorship, selection and departure for outgoing and incoming students.
Comments from the meeting advised that there is an allowance paid by the Rotary Club to assist host parents with expenses. Darren emphasised that you treat your guests like a member of the family - they are experiencing family life in Australia, and should expect to be told "NO", just as your own kids expect to hear that.