INTERACT
Founded in 1962 the Interact program has grown dramatically
into a Rotary-sponsored international program for service minded
young people between the ages of 14 and 18 or in the final four
years of their secondary schooling. Clubs can be either community-
based or attached to the local high school. The purpose of Interact
is to provide opportunities for young people to work together
in a world fellowship dedicated to service and international understanding.
Among its goals are the recognition and development
of constructive leadership and personal integrity, the
encouragement and practice of thoughtfulness and helpfulness to
others, the recognition of the dignity and value of all occupations and the development of knowledge
and understanding of community, national and world affairs.
An Interact club is organised, sponsored and supervised by a Rotary club and, where school
based, approved and encouraged by school authorities. There is a Standard Interact Club Constitution
prescribed by Rotary International which each club must adopt. Local by-laws provide a
limited flexibility. For purposes of extension, liaison and co-ordination the district governor appoints
a Rotary District Interact Chairman and supporting committee. It is their responsibility to plan and
present any training for Interact club members.
Where more than five Interact clubs exist within a
district, a district Interact representative may be elected. Typical of the projects undertaken by Interactors
include:
painting of school property, church halls, scout/guide halls; making toys; minor
repairs for senior citizens; helping sick and aged pensioners with lawn mowing and gardening;
aid to flood and bushfire victims; assisting disadvantaged students; supporting primary reading
programs; sending support packages off to Third World countries. Clubs fundraise through BBQ’s,
dances, fashion parades, raffles, sporting activities, etc. Clubs meet not less than twice per month.
It is imperative that each sponsoring club provides an Interact chairman who liaises regularly with
the club and ensures the attendance of a Rotarian at every meeting.
Contact: Aust - District Governors
NZ - D 9910, 9920, 9970, 9980