Interact, A Rotary Youth Program

Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people ages 12 to 18. Interact clubs are sponsored by individual Rotary clubs, which provide support and guidance, but they are self-governing and self-supporting.

Club membership varies greatly. Clubs can be single gender or mixed, large or small. They can draw from the student body of a single school or from two or more schools in the same community.

Each year, Interact clubs complete at least two community service projects, one of which furthers international understanding and goodwill. Through these efforts, Interactors develop a network of friendships with local and overseas clubs and learn the importance of

· Developing leadership skills and personal integrity

· Demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others

· Understanding the value of individual responsibility and hard work

Advancing international understanding and goodwill

As one of the most significant and fastest-growing programs of Rotary service, with more than 10,700 clubs in 109 countries and geographical areas, Interact has become a worldwide phenomenon. Almost 200,000 young people are involved in Interact.

I recently asked Michelle Londe, the President of the Central High Interact Club how she became involved in Interact.  She quickly responded, “I first learned about Interact when I went to RYLA summer 2009.  I decided to join and get the club started because I really liked what the club’s message was about and to continue being a part of Rotary.  As a member, I have gained so many more friends, connections, and a chance to serve and make a difference. This club is absolutely for everyone to be a part of.”

Judge Coates is currently the Interact Advisor.  She reports becoming involved in Interact by accident.  Her family was hosting an exchange student and took him to “Club Rush”.  Two of the RYLA students had a table to start Interact. She asked who the Rotary sponsor was and they did not know. She and Lily Sharp had children in school at the time and both thought (mainly Lily) that Interact would be a good idea. They helped with organizing the club and getting their charter. Judge Coates says, “It is a wonderful experience to watch high school students get involved in service and watch the pride they have in their work. I would encourage other member to become involved because it is amazing to watch the wonderful energy young people demonstrate and their commitment to making the world a better place.”

How can you become involved?  Judge Coates would appreciate other Club members meeting with and coaching the leadership of Interact about service and helping complete projects. She would also appreciate help starting clubs at the other high schools.  Please contact Judge Coates if you would like to learn more about the Interact program or become involved with this Club activity.