PIGEON FORGE — The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club proudly announces its collaboration with the Rotary International Youth Exchange Program by sponsoring a dynamic and promising youth ambassador. This partnership underscores the club’s dedication to nurturing global connections and fostering cultural exchange among young people.
The Rotary International Youth Exchange Program is a flagship initiative of Rotary International, aimed at promoting international understanding and peace through youth exchange. By participating in this program, young people can immerse themselves in different cultures, languages, and communities, gaining valuable insights and experiences that shape their perspectives and future endeavors.
The decision of the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club to sponsor a youth ambassador reflects its commitment to building bridges across borders and creating opportunities for meaningful intercultural dialogue. By welcoming a young ambassador from another country, the club members are fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries and promote mutual respect and friendship.
“We are excited to partner with the Rotary International Youth Exchange Program and to sponsor a bright and enthusiastic youth ambassador,” said Judge Melissa Moore, President of the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our club’s values of service, fellowship, and global citizenship. We believe that by hosting a youth ambassador, we not only enrich their lives but also contribute to building a more interconnected and peaceful world.”
Pigeon Forge Rotary Club’s selected youth ambassador is Ryan Wear, junior at Gatlinburg Pitman High School. Ryan’s enthusiasm for learning about different cultures and building connections with people from diverse backgrounds makes her an ideal candidate for the Rotary International Exchange Program. She will be spending one month in Oldenburg Germany with Carla Maria Hocertmoeller’s family. Carla is currently staying with the Wear family for one month immersing herself in American culture and the local community.
Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.
Short-term exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as camps, tours, or homestays that take place when school is not in session.
Rotary Youth Exchange inspires young leaders to serve as catalysts for peace and social justice in their local communities and throughout the world, long after their exchanges end. This program is possible because of the dedication, leadership, and passion of the tens of thousands of volunteers — Rotary members and nonmembers alike — who make this unique program so successful.
Through this immersive experience, they will not only expand their horizons but also forge lasting friendships and connections across cultures.
The Rotary International Youth Exchange Program has a long-standing tradition of empowering young people to become global citizens and ambassadors of goodwill. By participating in this program, the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club is playing a vital role in promoting peace and understanding through youth engagement and exchange.
The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club is a local chapter of Rotary International, a global network of community volunteers dedicated to serving humanity and promoting goodwill. The club is committed to making a positive impact in Pigeon Forge and beyond through its various service projects and initiatives.
The Pigeon Forge Rotary Club meets on Wednesdays at noon at Golden Corral in Pigeon Forge.
