Britt Etheridge spoke to us today about the Rotary Exchange Student Program. He and his family have been actively involved and they hosted their first 5 Rotary Exchange Students starting in 2008. Because of his interest and passion regarding Youth Exchange, Britt was asked to join the District Youth Exchange Committee in 2012, Since 2012 he served the committee as Treasurer, Club Trainer and now as the Co-Chair of the Committee with Lilia Marek. Six clubs in our district participate in Rotary Youth Exchange from a high of 20 at one time. Britt says "this is one of the most important parts of Rotary." Rotary International requires 2 host families in order to expand their culture experience. Since the Rotary program feels that it is important that the students have a continuum with their studies, the students must be able to attend the same school during their time here. Britt said that it's hard to find 3 host families in one school district. The vetting process includes criminal background checks. The students are provided free room and board and a free education and a stipend. Students may qualify for scholarships. Students must be 15 to 18 1/2 when they arrive and should have a year left in school. The students don't drive due to liability. The host family is not required to know the student's native language. The goal is for the student to learn about and enjoy Texas culture. We were told that Whataburger and Chick Fil A is popular among the exchange students. Britt's daughter Brittney was a Rotary Exchange Student in Spain for a month. When she returned home she brought her host sibling back with her to live for a month. Brittney said she found it interesting that in Spain everyone enjoys a two hour siesta - all business shuts down. Dinner is typically very late, usually at 10:30 pm. She is looking forward to another time abroad with the Rotary Exchange Program. For more information please visit Rotary Youth Exchange HERE! Thanks Britt and Brittney for speaking to us today about this very important Rotary program! We would love for you to visit us again soon!