Do you enjoy working with young people and learning about different cultures? Pittsford Rotary is looking for a passionate volunteer to serve as our Youth Exchange Officer—helping shape life-changing international experiences for students ages 15–17. This is more than a role—it’s an opportunity to build global connections, support future leaders, and bring the world to our community.
What you’ll do:
- Guide inbound and outbound exchange students through their journey
- Identify and secure 2–3 welcoming host families within the student’s school district
- Coordinate and support host families throughout the year
- Work with Pittsford Mendon or Sutherland High School
- Be a trusted mentor and resource for students and families
Students arrive in late August and stay through July 1, typically living with three local hostf amilies. The first host family should ideally be secured by May 1 as part of the application process. If needed, Matthew and Susan Wahl have personally stepped in as a temporary backup host family to ensure a smooth start while a permanent placement is finalized.
The time commitment for the role varies throughout the year but generally averages a few hours per month, with slightly more time required during the spring application and placement period.You won’t do it alone. Rotary provides a dedicated student counselor and strong district-level support, along with required training and background screening to ensure a safe and successful program.
Unlike many exchange programs, Rotary Youth Exchange focuses on cultural immersion and ambassadorial experience—students represent their countries, build lifelong relationships, and create meaningful global understanding. Matthew Wahl, who has served in this role for 15 years, will provide guidance and training to help you succeed. Matthew and Susan Wahl have also hosted several students from around the world for periods ranging from three weeks to six months.
Ready to make a difference? Contact Matthew Wahl at 585-330-5407 or stop by Forsythe Jewelers to speak with him in person.
What you’ll do:
- Guide inbound and outbound exchange students through their journey
- Identify and secure 2–3 welcoming host families within the student’s school district
- Coordinate and support host families throughout the year
- Work with Pittsford Mendon or Sutherland High School
- Be a trusted mentor and resource for students and families
Students arrive in late August and stay through July 1, typically living with three local hostf amilies. The first host family should ideally be secured by May 1 as part of the application process. If needed, Matthew and Susan Wahl have personally stepped in as a temporary backup host family to ensure a smooth start while a permanent placement is finalized.
The time commitment for the role varies throughout the year but generally averages a few hours per month, with slightly more time required during the spring application and placement period.You won’t do it alone. Rotary provides a dedicated student counselor and strong district-level support, along with required training and background screening to ensure a safe and successful program.
Unlike many exchange programs, Rotary Youth Exchange focuses on cultural immersion and ambassadorial experience—students represent their countries, build lifelong relationships, and create meaningful global understanding. Matthew Wahl, who has served in this role for 15 years, will provide guidance and training to help you succeed. Matthew and Susan Wahl have also hosted several students from around the world for periods ranging from three weeks to six months.
Ready to make a difference? Contact Matthew Wahl at 585-330-5407 or stop by Forsythe Jewelers to speak with him in person.
