Youth Programs
Empowering our youth
It is the responsibility of our club members to empower our youth by helping young people improve their life skills to ensure a better future, while recognizing the diversity of their needs. We do this in a variety of ways: the youth exchange program, the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, celebrating students of the month from local schools, and inviting local students to join us on community service projects.
Rotary Youth Exchange
Changing the world, one friendship at a time
Rotary youth exchange students spend up to a year in another country living with a few host families and learning about another culture, learning a new language, and learning about themselves. Whether students participate in short-term or long-term exchange programs, students are an ambassador, teaching people about their country, culture and ideas. Being an exchange student is the opportunity of a lifetime, and the experiences, memories and friends they encounter can last a lifetime. Check with our club about youth exchange opportunities, and find more information about the District 5100 Rotary Youth Exchange Program online HERE.
Students of the Month
Recognizing students in local schools for their accomplishments
East Salem Rotary partners with several schools in the east Salem area: McKay High School, Chemawa Indian School, Blanchet Catholic School, Waldo Middle School, and Stephens Middle School. On a monthly basis during the school year these schools select two students to be recognized for their accomplishments. Students share with the club what they have been doing, what they are proud of, and what their educational and occupational goals are for the future. Joining us for lunch meetings gives students the opportunity to meet Rotarians and to learn a little about our organization.
Annual East Salem Rotary Scholarship Essay
How the Rotary International Theme Connects to Leadership
College-bound seniors at local high schools in the east Salem area write an essay on the annual Rotary International theme and how it impacts individuals and groups and provides a better future for all, or how they have embraced a cause related to the theme to change lives for the better. They also share information on their leadership abilities and leadership roles they have in school, work, and the community. Essay winners’ scholarship awards are paid on behalf of the student directly to the college of their choice to pay for tuition or books.
R.Y.L.A.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
The purpose of RYLA is to recognize young leaders and provide them with an opportunity to expand their perceptions and ideals. RYLA participants gain knowledge about themselves and learn to work with others in order to become a better person and a future leader. Participants are selected through an essay and application process through their local Rotary Club. Once selected to receive the award, young adults are invited to attend a weeklong seminar aimed at further developing their interpersonal and leadership skills. Click HERE to learn more about RYLA.