(Seattle)— Rotary Clubs the world over have worked towards advancing understanding, goodwill and peace since Rotary’s beginning in 1905.  Local clubs are encouraging young business people to join these efforts by taking part in a month-long Group Study Exchange in Rotary District 3201 in southwest India from 24 January to 23 February 2009 and Rotary District 1690 in southwest France from 28 March to 26 April, 2009.  These are separate exchanges, and different teams and team leaders will be selected for each exchange. Applications are currently being accepted by all clubs in the 5030 district*.  The exchange is open to non-Rotarians only.

The exchange is designed to develop professional and leadership skills, and to better prepare participants to address the global needs of their own communities when they return.  It’s a month-long program in which participants will travel throughout the district, engage in professional exchanges, and tour business and cultural facilities they would never see as a tourist.  All costs are covered by Rotary**.  

Kelly O'Rourke, who took part in a recent exchange in Thailand, was surprised by her experience.  “The program was described as an opportunity to experience a country through the 'back door' of Rotary. That is exactly what happened. Our team met people, saw sights and had experiences that would not be available to even the most well-seasoned, well-researched traveler.”

Julius Debro, chairman of the GSE committee, regards the program as an opportunity to dig beneath the surface - not only to see the sights, but to live with people of each host country to learn the challenges they face every day.

* District 5030 Encompasses most of King County.

**—Participants are required to get their own passports, visas and any required shots. All travel, room and board, and exchange costs are covered by Rotary.