Youth Programs - December is Disease Prevention and Treatment month for Rotary, but for all of us, it kind of seems that all of 2020 we’ve been thinking about preventing a disease. While we’re closing in on the end of a year of masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing it’s a perfect opportunity for us to reflect on what we accomplished in these uncertain times.
 
Youth Programs for the District had a busy year, even though they didn’t pan out the way we anticipated. We’ve been preparing for upcoming years and making necessary adjustments to remain active however possible.
There are a team of Rotarians working together to formulate a Crisis Management Plan, so that we’re equipped for future situations if needed. Rest assured that we’re considering all possible “bumps” that could come up on the Youth Exchange and Interact roads. Once this plan is finalized, all clubs that have Youth Programs will be trained on so you’re informed and know what steps to take.
 
Carol Herman and Andy Bakkum are doing an amazing job with keeping our Interact Clubs as active as they can across the district. Now is a great opportunity to reach out to your local Interact students and share their awesome work with your club. Applaud them for the work that they’ve achieved and let them know that it doesn’t go unnoticed at the District level. They are the future of Rotary and it’s important to keep them feeling fulfilled by their role in Rotary.
 
Soon, the overarching decisions surrounding next year’s Youth Programs options will be made, and we’ll need to be prepared for those and be ready to act quickly if needed. If your club has questions or is looking for ways to interact with youth in your area, reach out and let me know, I’m happy to connect with you or get you connected with the right person in the district. 

Laura Lee
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