Interact is a Rotary-sponsored program for young people ages 12 to 18 to undertake service projects. It aims to develop leadership skills while allowing members to serve their communities. In the past year, 9 new Interact clubs were formed in Rotary District 1010, bringing the total to 14 clubs. To set up a new Interact Club, Rotarians identify interested students and teachers, help elect officers, and support the club's initial service projects. Maintaining an Interact Club involves publicizing successes, encouraging new members, and restarting if participation declines.

1. District Assembly 8th May 2010 Interact Rotary District 1010

2. What is Interact? Interact is Rotary for 12 – 18 years olds Interact Clubs are school-based or community-based Clubs are sponsored by a Rotary Club and are self-governing Members undertake two projects per year, one local and one international

3. Interact in Rotary International 10,700 Clubs in over 100 countries with over 200,000 young people involved An opportunity for young people to contribute to our goals of service, international understanding and fellowship “ Serious fun”

4. Why Interact? New Generations: 5 th Avenue of Service Part of Rotary's core mission to enhance life opportunities for young people Helps develop the Rotarians of the future Opportunities for Rotarians to give active enjoyable service Brings Rotary closer to communities

5. Opportunities for young people To demonstrate citizenship – and to make a difference To gain leadership, project management and teamwork skills To learn vocational skills …… all of which help them to progress to a job or further/higher education To learn more about the world To make new friends and have fun

6. 2009-10: Success!!! 9 new Interact clubs formed! 14 active Interact Clubs in District 1010 Lots of fantastic local and international service projects Scope for a district Interact Rally in 2010

7. How to set up an Interact Club Identify a small group of Rotarians as a support group Secure interest from a school Present to target audience of pupils Form interest group of pupils Oversee election of officers Support Club to get started with projects Complete paperwork Hold inaugural ceremony

8. Keeping your Interact Club going Publicise success Encourage involvement of younger members Hold AGM and elect officers before end of school year Request opportunity to present at assemblies before end of school year … .. If all else fails start again in new school year

9. Janet Lowe District Interact Officer [email_address]