Thank you for your interest in participating in the Lions Youth Exchange Program! The Lion and non-Lion families volunteering to make your exchange possible are proud of their commitment to fostering international good will. We hope you feel as we do that exchanges between countries can be a major step toward greater understanding among the peoples of the world.

Your Lions sponsors and hosts will do everything they can to make your stay enjoyable and rewarding. Your willingness to make the most of your trip, however, will determine your success as an exchange visitor. Your likes and dislikes, values and beliefs, customs and expectations will affect your understanding of a new culture. Be aware of your cultural biases before you leave home, and you will better appreciate the cultural differences you encounter when you arrive in Massachusetts.

Participation

Participation in the MD33 Lions Youth Camp and Exchange Program is open to all young people who are:

• 16-18 years of age on July 19, 2017;
• sponsored by a Lions club;
• capable of representing your sponsoring Lions club, community, and country;
• willing to accept the customs of another culture.

You must complete an Exchange Visitor application form. The form can be downloaded here.

Language

Most of us do not realize how much we rely on language to communicate until we find ourselves in a country where a different language is spoken. Those who have studied one or more different languages in school will likely have a much easier time feeling comfortable in a new culture. Although fluency in English is not required for acceptance, you are expected to have some language ability. Phrase books and pocket dictionaries are inexpensive and can help you with simple communication.

The more familiar you are with the language, the easier communication will be between you and your hosts. Knowing even a little can impress your new family and show them you are truly interested in their culture. Even if the language we speak is the same as yours, you will find that in New England, there are differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and usage. Don’t worry! You will find that people in Massachusetts are friendly, and willing to help you learn how to speak like someone from Boston.