Outbound Youth Exchange

Status: Active for the 2026 Exchange Year

The Outbound Youth Exchange program provides Arizona youth ages 16–22 with the opportunity to participate in international Lions Clubs International Youth Camp & Exchange (YCE) programs hosted around the world.

Participants travel abroad to attend Lions-affiliated camps or exchange programs, where they experience new cultures, build global friendships, and represent Arizona and the United States in a structured, supportive environment.

Program Overview

Outbound Youth Exchange is designed for students who are curious about the world and ready for an immersive international experience. Through Lions Clubs International Youth Camp & Exchange (YCE) programs, participants live and learn alongside youth from many countries while supported by Lions Clubs both at home and abroad.

This is a cultural exchange program — not tourism — and emphasizes mutual understanding, leadership development, and global citizenship.

Program Purpose & Lions Ideals

The Lions Clubs International Youth Camp & Exchange program was officially adopted in 1974 to advance the First Object of Lions Clubs International:

To create and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world.

Through international exchange, the program aims to:

  • Bring young people from different countries into meaningful contact
  • Encourage the sharing of cultural perspectives and viewpoints
  • Promote international understanding, goodwill, and peace
  • Develop leadership potential in youth
  • Foster respect for the ideas and experiences of others

How the Outbound Exchange Works

  1. Local Lions Club Sponsorship
    Each youth participant is sponsored by a local Arizona Lions Club.
  2. Application & Selection
    Students apply through Arizona Lions Youth Exchange, which provides guidance, support, and oversight throughout the process. Applications are reviewed and matched with available international Lions YCE programs.
  3. Placement with an International Program
    Accepted participants are placed with a Lions YCE camp or exchange program hosted by a Lions organization in another country.
  4. Pre-Departure Preparation
    Participants and families receive orientation, expectations, and travel guidance prior to departure.
  5. International Exchange Experience
    Youth attend their assigned program abroad, participating in cultural activities, service, and exchange experiences.
  6. Return & Continued Engagement
    After returning home, participants are encouraged to share their experiences with their sponsoring Lions Club and community.

Eligibility & Timeline

Eligibility:

  • Arizona residents
  • Ages 16–22 (age requirements may vary by host country)
  • Sponsored by a local Arizona Lions Club
  • Willingness to represent Arizona Lions and the United States abroad

Timeline (General):

  • Applications typically open in the fall
  • Placements occur during winter and spring
  • Exchanges generally take place during the summer months
  • Specific dates vary by host country and program.

Costs & What’s Included

Costs vary depending on the host country and program. Families should plan for expenses such as:

  • International airfare
  • Program or camp fees (if applicable)
  • Personal spending money
  • Travel documents and insurance

This typically amounts to $1,000 for domestic camps, and $2,000 for international camps. Scholarships and financial support is available.

What is typically included:

  • Lodging and meals during the exchange program
  • Organized cultural and program activities
  • Local supervision by Lions Clubs and program staff
  • Detailed cost information is provided once placements are confirmed.

Safety & Supervision

Safety is a top priority of the Lions Youth Camp & Exchange program.

  • Participants are supported by:
  • Lions Clubs International YCE standards and guidelines
  • Local Lions Club sponsorship in Arizona
  • Host Lions Clubs and trained program staff abroad
  • Clearly defined expectations and supervision structures

Arizona Lions Youth Exchange works closely with international partners to ensure a safe and positive experience for all participants.

Information for Parents & Guardians

Parents and guardians play an important role in supporting youth during the exchange process.

You can expect:

  • Clear communication before departure
  • Program guidelines and expectations
  • Support from the sponsoring Lions Club
  • Emergency contact procedures while abroad

Outbound Youth Exchange is designed to provide independence for youth while maintaining appropriate oversight and support.

Information for Lions Clubs

Local Lions Clubs are essential to the success of the Outbound Youth Exchange program.

Lions Clubs may:

  • Sponsor youth from their community
  • Assist with interviews and selection
  • Provide mentorship and guidance
  • Support youth before and after the exchange

Arizona Lions Youth Exchange encourages Lions Clubs to consider sponsoring underserved, academically responsible youth who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in an international exchange experience.

Youth may be fully family‑funded, partially funded, or supported through club, multi‑club, or program‑level sponsorships.

Clubs receive guidance from Arizona Lions Youth Exchange throughout the process.

Apply to the Outbound Youth Exchange

Students interested in participating in the Outbound Youth Exchange program should begin by connecting with a local Arizona Lions Club.

Applications are submitted through Arizona Lions Youth Exchange and reviewed based on eligibility, availability, and international placements.

Apply Now