Frequently Asked Questions

Both Rotarians and non-Rotarians are invited to serve as host families representing Rotary International. We welcome a diverse range of family dynamics and socio-economic backgrounds. The only real requirements are an open heart, an open mind, and the time, space, and energy to care for a young adult.

Each host family undergoes an in-home interview and inspection with a representative from Rotary International. Anyone over age 18 living in the home will be required to submit a Volunteer Application and consent to a Criminal Background Check. Once approved, your entire household will attend a Host Family Orientation before your student’s arrival, presented by their Inbound Counselor and the District Youth Exchange Officer.

Most long-term RYE exchange students live with two to four host families during their exchange. This means your student may live with you for anywhere between three and six months.

No. However, you may receive a tax deduction for the time you serve as a host. Make sure to confirm your eligibility before filing.

Whether or not your student needs their own room is debatable. If an extra bedroom is available, this gives the student a place to retreat if the whirlwind of new experiences becomes overwhelming. On the other hand, sharing a room with a sibling of the same gender can help the student acclimate more quickly to the family and ebb homesickness. Either way, it is a requirement that your student has their own bed, and adequate storage space for their clothes and personal belongings. They will also need a desk or designated quiet area where they’re able to study.

A common mistake made by new hosts is to treat their student like a visitor, guest, or tourist instead of a family member. For all intents and purposes, you serve as your RYE student’s parent and guardian during their exchange. Their safety and security is your responsibility. You should have the same expectations, rules and boundaries for your student that you do for your other family members. This includes chores, curfews, and open communication.

All Rotary Youth Exchange students are required to attend school full time. Understand that your student may be coming from a vastly different educational system and could need some guidance. As their host family, you’re expected to help them acclimate to their new school and its procedures. That’s why the first host family should consider visiting the school counselor to tour the grounds, and make sure the student is comfortable with their class schedule.

Before the exchange, research your inbound student’s culture. This can help prevent misunderstandings. Also, consider which aspects of your culture you would like to share with them. Start planning experiences to taste area foods, enjoy community entertainment, and visit local places of interest. As soon as you receive their information from your local Rotary Club, you should contact your student and their parents to offer welcoming wishes and introduce yourselves. This is also a good opportunity to give advice on your area, like what types of clothing to bring, and provide information about your community.