Hands Across the Sea

Ever since its founding over 100 years ago Rotary has encouraged the growth of relationships between Rotarians. First it was between communities then states. Today Rotary spreads its fellowship network around the globe.

 

At ARC’s November 9^th meeting the assembled members heard about how Rotarians can meet Rotarians on a person to person basis through the Rotary Friendship Exchange Program. Giving the presentation about the program was Gary Rohrbach and Dee Eng.

 

The couple have been active members with the Rotary Club of Emmaus and Gary is the Assistant Governor 1 of District 7430.

 

They have been involved with the exchange program for a number of years both visiting with Rotarians abroad and having guests from overseas stay at their home. “You’re never a tourist on a Rotary exchange,” says Dee Rohrbach, “You become part of a family.”

There are three types of Rotary Exchange Programs. Some are
 

The most common is the Rotary Friendship Cultural Exchange. Part of this program lets Rotarians from around the world share ideas with each other. Another is showing visitors local sites of interest.

 

Our District has taken Rotary exchange guests to Longwood Gardens and Historic Moravian Bethlehem, which is being considered as a possible World Heritage site. Washington D.C. and New York are among often requested visit sites.

 

Past ARC president Barb Bottitta and husband and her husband, Lou, have shared their experiences on a recent Rotary Friendship Cultural Exchange to northern England in SMILE articles, and on Facebook and ARC's Instagram site.  Don't hesitate to ask them for details or to ask about being a volunteer to host a couple from England this coming May.  To learn more about one of the couples visiting us in May, view this link