Interact, the Rotary youth program, was launched by the RI Board of Directors in 1962. The first Interact club was established by the Rotary Club of Melbourne, Florida. Interact clubs provide opportunities for boys and girls of secondary school age to work together in a world fellowship of service and international understanding. The term, Interact, is derived from "inter" for international, and "act" for action. Every Interact club must be sponsored and supervised by a Rotary club and must plan annual projects of service to its school, community and in the world.
"Interactors" develop skills in leadership and attain practical experience in conducting service projects, thereby learning the satisfaction that comes from serving others. A major goal of Interact is to provide opportunities for young people to create greater understanding and goodwill with youth throughout the world.
After the success of Interact clubs for high school-age youth in the early 1960s, the RI board created Rotaract in 1968. The new organization was designed to promote responsible citizenship and leadership potential in clubs of young men and women from aged 18. Rotaract Clubs emphasize the importance of individual responsibility as the basis of personal success and community involvement. Each club sponsors an annual project to promote high ethical standards in one's business and professional life. Rotaract also provides opportunities leading to greater international understanding and goodwill. Rotaractors enjoy many social activities as well as programs to improve their community. The programs of Rotaract are built around the motto "Fellowship Through Service."
RotaKids is a fun and exciting way for children aged 7-12 to make friends and get involved with important activities in the community, all while having a great time in the process.The purpose of RotaKids is to support opportunities for children to organize themselves in groups, exercise leadership and receive the seed of Rotary ideals with the philosophy of "Serving Play". Stimulate teaching values such as dignity and respect for others, as important and necessary for the formation of human character. RotaKids clubs are based in schools, youth groups or community centres and with the help and support from teachers, youth leaders and the local Rotary club, children can gain a valuable experience in helping others and learning interesting new things.It also brings an exciting and practical approach to supporting the citizenship element of the national curriculum.
Rotary Youth Leadership Academy is a leadership training program coordinated by Rotary Clubs and Districts across the globe. Each year, thousands of young people ages 14 – 30 are sponsored by Rotary Clubs and Districts to attend the event run by the RYLA District Committee. Participants are chosen for their leadership potential. Rotary Clubs and Districts cover all expenses for the participants through the support they get from corporate sponsorship and partnership. The format of the event varies from district to district, but commonly takes the form of a seminar, camp or workshop to discuss leadership skills and to learn those skills through practice. Rotary clubs and districts select participants and facilitate the event’s curriculum.