The youth of today are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today. Through the Interact club movement, Rotary International has created a powerful platform that empowers young people aged 12-18 to take action in their communities while developing the leadership skills and service mindset that will shape our world’s future.
Understanding the Interact Movement
Founded in 1962, Interact has grown to become one of Rotary’s most successful programmes, with over 20,000 clubs in more than 159 countries and geographical areas. The name “Interact” itself reflects the programme’s core philosophy—international action—emphasising both global awareness and local engagement. Interact clubs are community service clubs for young people who want to join together to address their community’s needs while building international understanding and peace. These clubs provide a foundation upon which young people can build lifelong friendships and discover the rewards of serving others.
The Objectives That Drive Impact
The Interact programme is built on three fundamental objectives that align seamlessly with Rotary’s own mission:
Developing Leadership Skills. Through planning and implementing service projects, managing club operations, and taking on officer roles, Interact members develop essential leadership capabilities. They learn to organise events, motivate peers, manage resources, and navigate challenges—skills that serve them well in their academic, professional, and personal lives.
Encouraging High Ethical Standards. Interact clubs operate under Rotary’s Four-Way Test, teaching young people to consider whether their actions and decisions are truthful, fair, beneficial, and foster goodwill. This ethical framework helps shape character and instills values that last a lifetime.
Promoting International Understanding. Through global service projects, cultural exchanges, and connections with Interact clubs worldwide, members develop a broader perspective on world issues and learn to appreciate diversity. This international outlook is crucial in our increasingly connected world.
Our Vital Role as Sponsors
As Rotary club sponsors, we play an indispensable role in the success of the Interact movement. Our sponsorship goes far beyond simply providing a club charter—we serve as mentors, guides, and partners in the journey of youth development.
Mentorship and Guidance. Our members bring decades of professional experience and service wisdom to young Interactors. By sharing our knowledge of project planning, fundraising, and community engagement, we help them avoid common pitfalls and maximise their impact. Regular meetings between our club and the Interact club create valuable mentoring opportunities.
Resource Support. While Interact clubs are expected to be self-sustaining, strategic support from sponsoring Rotary clubs can amplify their impact that include seed funding for major projects, access to our professional networks, or assistance with logistics for larger initiatives.
Recognition and Encouragement. Young people thrive on recognition and encouragement. By celebrating Interact achievements in our meetings, newsletters, and community events, we validate their efforts and inspire continued engagement. The Interact club’s successes become our club’s pride.
Pathway to Future Membership. Perhaps most importantly, we serve as a bridge between their current service experience and potential future involvement in Rotary. By showing our values and impact, we plant seeds for lifelong commitment to service above self.
The Ripple Effect of Investment
When we invest in Interact clubs, we’re creating ripple effects that extend far beyond immediate service projects. Studies show that young people involved in service programmes like Interact are more likely to continue volunteering throughout their lives, pursue civic engagement, and become community leaders. Many of today’s Rotarians trace their service journey back to their Interact experience. These individuals bring fresh perspectives, technological savvy, and innovative approaches to our clubs while maintaining the core values that define Rotary.
Taking Action as Sponsors
Effective sponsorship requires intentional engagement.
Regular Communication. Establish monthly meetings between a designated Rotarian Advisor liaison and Interact club officers to discuss projects, challenges, and opportunities.
Joint Projects. Identify opportunities for collaborative service projects that allow Rotarians and Interactors to work side by side, fostering intergenerational learning and relationship building.
Skills Sharing. Offer workshops on topics like public speaking, project management, fundraising, or professional development, leveraging the expertise within our club.
Advocacy and Promotion. Help promote Interact activities within the broader community, increasing their visibility and impact while demonstrating Rotary’s commitment to youth development.
A Legacy Worth Building
The Interact club movement represents one of Rotary’s most significant investments in the future. Through these clubs, we’re not just addressing today’s community needs—we’re developing the ethical leaders, engaged citizens, and passionate advocates who will tackle tomorrow’s challenges.
Our role as sponsors is both a privilege and a responsibility. We have the opportunity to shape young minds, nurture servant hearts, and build bridges between generations. When we fully embrace this role, we contribute to a legacy that extends far beyond our own Rotary careers.
The young people in Interact clubs are watching us, learning from us, and preparing to carry forward the torch of service. By investing in them today, we ensure that the Rotary ideal of “Service Above Self” will continue to transform communities around the world for generations to come. The strength of Interact lies not just in what young people can accomplish today, but in who they will become tomorrow. As their sponsors, we have the honour of being part of that transformation.
Written by
Rajiv Mathews George
AG 2025/26
