Welcome

 

Short-Term Youth Exchange Program with Japan District 2670

 

 

Our Short-Term (3 week) Youth Exchange Program with Japan District 2670 has successfully concluded its 47th year.  During those 47 years, the program has served thousands of students and their families, creating lifelong memories and important international experiences for the participants.

 

We hope to continue the program into the future and have started to collect ideas for a 50th anniversary celebration.  We will soon be setting up a Facebook page for those who have been part of the program over the years to share their memories.

 

Thank you to all who supported and participated in the program in 2025.  This includes our outbound trip leaders Robin and Tulsi, trip chaperones, supporting clubs, including Madison, Livingston, West Orange, Morristown, Phillipsburg and Roxbury.  A special thank you to all hosts and host families for their participation and support.  Without the host families, there is no program.  And a call-out to Bill Hepplewhite, who was both a host for 6 boys and supporter!

 

 

Outbound Trip 2025

 

20 students and their leaders visited Japan from June 26, 2025 to July 16, 2025.  During the 3 week trip, the students explored Japanese traditions, connected with local students, and formed lifelong friendships. They were welcomed by Japanese Rotarians, who served as hosts throughout their stay.

Participants explored major cities in southern Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, with a dedicated visit to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The group primarily stayed on Shikoku, an island comparable in size to New Jersey. Each student hed the unique experience of living with a different host family in each of Shikoku's four prefectures.  

Incoming Trip 2025

On July 31 2025, 20 students and their leaders from Japan arrived in New Jersey.  They stayed for three weeks, departing on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.  They stayed with different host families and visited historic, cultural, sports, and amusement locations in New Jersey, New York City and Pennsylvania.  

Much of the time was spent touring as a group accompanied by US students and leaders.  Some of the sites visited include the United Nations, MOMA, Museum of Natural History, Liberty Science Center, Six Flags, Point Pleasant Beach, Community Peace Garden and Grounds for Sculpture.  They also got to enjoy a Phillies game, where 50% of the ticket price benefited The Rotary Foundation Polio Fund.   On weekends, they spent time with their host family visiting local attractions and learning about American lifestyle.

This program offers participants the opportunity to learn about Japanese and American culture through the hospitality of local families and communities. Unlike traditional tourist experiences, the exchange creates deep cultural understanding and meaningful connections.

Be Part of the Program - Become a Host Family

Host families are an important part of the exchange experience.  As a host family, you gain firsthand experience with a different culture, language, and perspective, broadening your understanding of the world.  

The students are paired by gender and each pair will stay with a host family for about one week each:

On group days, you provide breakfast and then drop the two students off at a designated bus stop.   The students spend the day visiting scheduled events and attractions.  At the end of the day you pick them up at the same location and learn all about their adventures at your evening meal.  On family days, the students are with you for the entire day so you can plan activities and show them your community.

Host families are responsible for meals, accommodations, activities, supervision and care.  A training webinar is conducted to answer all of your questions.  An online application and background check is required for adults 18 years or older.  

Students may share a bedroom, but must have separate beds.  You may request males or females.  Host families with high-school students are encouraged.  Non-Rotarians can also serve as host families.