Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) is one of Rotary International’s oldest but often lesser-known programs. It’s essentially a reciprocal exchange program where Rotarians (and often their families) from one country visit Rotarians in another country or region, and then host them in return.

Belonging to a Rotary Inter-Country Committee (ICC) offers Rotarians a unique opportunity to promote international understanding, collaboration, and peace. Rotary has always emphasized global service, but ICCs strengthen this mission by connecting clubs from different countries and encouraging long-term partnerships. Members who participate in these committees gain both personal and professional benefits while making meaningful contributions to global goodwill.

District 6900 now has these two excellent programs in place. Last year, our PDG Gordon Owens and the PDGs of district 6910 and 6920 signed the ICC Charter with Serbia and Montenegro. (see charter document). This is a great way for clubs to be part of global grants. A partnership is already in place. All clubs need to do is plug in!

One key benefit is cross-cultural exchange. Through an ICC, Rotarians build friendships with members in other countries, learn about different cultures, and develop a clearer understanding of global issues

Another major benefit is the ability to collaborate on impactful service projects. ICCs help clubs from different countries combine resources, expertise, and manpower to address shared challenges.

The Rotary Friendship Exchange is a cultural exchange that builds international goodwill and peace. Participants live in Rotarians’ homes (not hotels), so it’s very personal and community-focused. Exchanges can be individuals, couples, or groups (typically 4–12 people).

The goals are to build cross-cultural understanding and friendships, strengthen club and district partnerships, lay foundations for future service projects, grants, or youth programs, and offer Rotarians authentic cultural immersion while traveling.

This is a great way to travel at low cost (lodging and many meals provided by hosts), see countries "through Rotary eyes," beyond tourism, and build lifelong friendships and sometimes professional connections. Most importantly it can spark joint international projects funded by Rotary Foundation Global Grants.

How to get involved in these amazing programs?!?! Send an email to the district 6900 RFE chair, Ada Wikina ( awikina@hotmail.com .  Let us make this happen.