Past President John Wells presided over a great lunch meeting while President Nick was away in Paris (I guess he was doing his own mini exchange!).
We were fortunate to learn more about Rotary's short-term exchange program through a presentation from Addison Godes (Glenwood Spgs, Colorado, USA) and Elisa Baggetta (Ivrea, Piedmont, Italy). These lovely young women shared their insights and highlights of their experiences visiting each other's countries and families this summer. Addison traveled to Elisa's town and enjoyed 6 weeks with her family and friends touring Northern Italy and learning about the culture and way of life. And now Elisa is in Colorado learning about the US, enhancing her English language skills, and pushing herself beyond her comfort zone.
Both women found surprising aspects of the others' country that challenged their assumptions and experiences. Ah! That's what exchange is all about!
The short-term exchanges are gaining in popularity with more and more young people showing interest and applying. These exchanges are essentially family-to-family and provide a meaningful experience for students without the commitment of an entire year away. They are a nice compliment to Rotary's long-term exchange program.
Later this year we will hear a presentation from Tanner Merritt when his Brazilian exchange partner, Gill, comes to Glenwood for his exchange experience. And Bronze Ufrig from Carbondale will tell us about his year in Japan. You won't want to miss these programs!
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Many thanks to Jackie Skramstad and John Stroud, District chair of Youth Exchange,(Carbondale) who coordinate our youth exchange programs and have worked for many years providing our young people with unique and life-changing experiences for their hard work and dedication to something bigger than themselves.
Update on Alex: This year's exchange student from Ukraine has been able to arrange an additional year of exchange to the Czech Republic. This will help him continue to walk in peace and keep him out of harm's way as the fighting in Ukraine continues.