Our Rotary District
District 5050 Rotary Youth Exchange
About Us
We are a passionate network of Rotarians dedicated to offering students life-changing exchange journeys that foster global understanding and peace. At the heart of our program is student safety and meaningful cultural immersion.
Our Rotary District (5050) spans communities in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia (Canada) and Northwest Washington (USA). If you’re looking for a local Rotary club or want to connect with us, visit our District 5050 website.
Why Rotary Youth Exchange?
For over 75 years, RYE has enabled thousands of young people and host families to broaden horizons and become ambassadors of their country abroad. With participation in more than 80 countries and over 8,000 students annually, the program is administered locally by Rotary clubs and districts.
What we do
Rotarians around the world believe in taking meaningful action on the planet’s toughest challenges, and connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Collectively, our clubs and volunteers:
- Promote peace
- Fight disease
- Deliver clean water, sanitation and hygiene
- Support mothers, children and education
- Strengthen local economies
- Protect the environment
We also maintain a strong focus on youth through exchange programs, youth service clubs and mentoring initiatives.
A Commitment to Youth
Rotary maintains a strong connection to youth and young adults. Besides Youth Exchange, Rotary clubs sponsor youth service clubs such as Interact, and Rotaract, youth development programs such as RYLA and offer career development and mentoring programs.
Low Cost, High Quality Exchange Program
Because our program is administered by volunteers at the club level, we are able to provide a vital exchange experience at a lower cost to families. Our experienced volunteers guide students, host families and clubs with care and expertise.
Our History
The roots of Rotary Youth Exchange go back to 1929 when two European clubs initiated student exchanges. In 1972, the program was officially recognized by Rotary International. Today, more than 60 countries participate and thousands of students take part each year. RYE 5050 has proudly been part of this tradition and continues to grow.
