In the interest of continued safety and security for youth exchange participants, Rotary International calls for new guidelines and certification standards.
 
In Westlock this past weekend, youth counsellors for clubs in our District received an update on the new certification process for Districts participating in youth exchange.  By July 2006, it is expected that clubs will have in place the mechanisms to ensure that host families and those working with the youth have the proper documentation in place.  Criminal record searches, references, orientations and home visits for prospective host families will become part of the process.  Formal training for counsellors will also be required.  Rotary International's aim is to ensure the protection and safety of all youth exchange participants.