Is your club interested in hosting young Russian or Ukrainian professionals eager to learn about American life? Through the Open World Program, Rotary clubs and districts in the United States have a unique opportunity to host Russians and Ukrainians interested in U.S. culture and society. Through a grant secured by Rotary International, Rotarians can serve as hosts to groups of young, emerging Russian and Ukrainian leaders during eight-day stays.

The guests get a firsthand look at the U.S. political system, business culture, and community life. Rotary clubs and districts, in turn, meet the next generation of Russian and Ukrainian leaders, establishing long-lasting ties with Russia and Ukraine and its people while contributing to Rotary’s work of spreading goodwill between cultures. The program also aims to promote understanding and forge bonds of friendship between the two nations.

Developed and operated by the Open World Leadership Center at the Library of Congress, the program has worked with Rotary International since 1999. Learn more about its history on the official Open World Program Web site.