Program Description
Unlike some exchange programs, the Lions program does not involve tourism, academic studies, or employment. Instead, the Lions Youth Exchange Program provides young people with the opportunity to:
- Participate in the everyday life in another culture;
- Reside with a host family;
- Serve as an ambassador for international understanding;
- Participate in local customs
How the Program Works
The success of the youth exchange program is the result of cooperation among many people. The program begins when:- A young person requests sponsorship from a local Lion or Lioness club to become a Lions youth exchangee or;
- A Lion or Lioness club seeks young people to participate as youth exchangees. The sponsoring club can set their own specific additional requirements such as: speech or essay contests, community service hours, recommendations from local schools, etc.
- Generally, Lions youth exchange visits are two to four weeks in duration. Many youth exchangees also participate in one-week (or longer) Lions international youth camps.
- Organized by Lions around the world, the Lions International Youth Camp Program provides young people (ages 17-21) with the opportunity to meet and share cultural viewpoints. A listing of camps can be found at: www.lionsclubs.org
