Rotary International Youth Exchange....
A signature program of the Rotary Club of New Canaan features the revival of our longstanding tradition of International Youth Exchange in our effort to promote World Peace and Understanding.
Our 2017/2018 International Youth Exchange Student, Constantin Sper from Germany, enjoyed a fantastic year here in New Canaan. As he recounted to our club in his farewell presentation on June 22, 2018, highlights included his arrival in the United States, playing football for the New Canaan Rams, several visits to New York City, various cultural events, meeting other Rotary International Exchange Students through organized Rotary gatherings, picking up a lacrosse stick for the first time and playing for the NCHS Rams, and above all, spending quality time with his host families. A special shout-out to thank our very own Lisa Lynn Kirkpatrick and her husband Gil and their family and our own John Engel and his wife Melissa and their family for providing warm, welcoming host homes for Constantin this year. Our hosts give a great deal, but they will tell you that they receive that much and more in return.
Hosting an international exchange student is a wonderful way to expand your family's horizons and create a life-long relationship. If you or anyone you know is interested in potentially hosting a student, please contact Alex Grantcharov at alex.e.grantcharov@gmail.com.
During the 2016/2017 academic year, we hosted Alvaro Riquelme from Linares, Chile, who successfully completed his Junior Year at New Canaan High School. Alvaro played soccer for the Rams and participated in many other activities. During the school year, Alvaro stayed with three different local host families, beginning with our club's own Ben and Betsy Bilus.
Here a just a few photos from Alvaro's successful year.....
During the 2015/2016 Rotary Year, our club sponsored outgoing International Exchange Students and hosted Incoming International Exchange Students. Here are just a few photos highlighting this wonderful experience. Special thanks to club members Anne Cheney, Alex Grantcharov and Cynthia Gorey for their work leading this effort!
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