YOUTH CAMP AND EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Program Summary:
Each year, Lions Clubs International offers thousands of young people the opportunity to experience life in another culture through the Lions International Youth Camp and Exchange (YCE) Program. Since the first Lions international camp was formed in Sweden in 1963, Lions throughout the world have welcomed thousands of Lions-sponsored campers between the ages of 16-22. Lions camps are at least one week in duration, held in countries where Lions clubs exist and offer a variety of activities to promote international goodwill. In addition to participating in international camps, Lions-sponsored youth from 15-21 years of age have the opportunity to stay with Lions-approved host families. Youth exchanges often occur before or after Lions international camps and can last between two to four weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can participate in the program?
Any youth between the ages of 15 and 22 that agrees to meet all of the requirements of the YCE Program, host Lions club and host country. All camp and exchange participants must be sponsored by a Lions club, even if the club is not providing financial assistance.
How does a district or multiple district participate in the program?
A certification form (that verifies and provides contact information on youth camp and exchange chairpersons) signed by the respective district governor or council chairperson and YCE chairperson/s is submitted to the Youth Programs Department at headquarters. Upon receipt and review, the district/MD camp and exchange program and contact information is posted on the YCE Directory on the Lions Web site – if the program meets the criteria outlined in the Youth Programs Chapter of the Board Policy Manual.
Who pays for expenses?
Financial arrangements vary and costs to participate in a camp or exchange may be paid by the sponsor Lions club, host Lions club, the youth, his or her family, or a combination of these sources. However, generally, the sponsoring Lions club, or the youth and his or her family, are responsible for the cost of the participant's international travel and insurance. Costs incurred while in the host country are generally the responsibility of the host Lions club. Participants should have adequate personal funds for incidentals, telephone calls and souvenirs.
Who facilitates the exchanges?
Exchanges are facilitated directly between YCE chairpersons. Chairpersons also act as liaisons between host and sponsor Lions clubs.
Can youth use exchanges for purposes of employment or education?
No. Unlike some exchange programs, the Lions program does not involve academic studies or employment. Lions youth exchanges provide an opportunity for young people to learn first-hand about another culture, and international camps allow youth to meet other young people from around the globe. Some camps and exchanges provide an opportunity for youth to participate in service activities and attend Lions clubs' meetings to learn more about Lions and the work they do.
Materials Available:
- YE 101: Youth Exchange Visitor Guide
- YE 102: Youth Exchange Host Family Guide
- YCE 510A: Annual District/Multiple District Youth Camp & Exchange Report Form
- YE 1000: The Lions International Youth Exchange Program General Information Brochure
- YCE 1401: Youth Camp & Exchange Participant Application Form
- YCE 1402: Youth Camp & Exchange Host Family Application Form
- YE 1450: Annual District/Multiple District Youth Camp & Exchange Activity Online Report
YOUTH CAMP AND EXCHANGE PROGRAM
- Youth Camp & Exchange Directory (available on Lions Web site)
Important Dates:
- August 31: Annual District/Multiple District Youth Camp & Exchange Report Form (YCE 510A) due to Youth Programs Department
- November 15: Deadline for Top Ten Youth Camp & Exchange Chairperson Application Form (YCE 110)
- December 1: Annual District/Multiple District Youth Camp & Exchange Activity Report (YE 1450) due to Youth Programs Department
Contact:
Ln. Amit Kishorepuria
DC – Youth 9830259099
amit.kpuria@gmail.com
