Building the future of service means, first of all, giving young people the chance to experience it first-hand. This is the idea behind Interact, Rotary's program aimed at boys and girls aged 12 to 18.
The Origins
The first Interact Club was founded in 1962 at Melbourne High School in Florida. The name combines the words "International" and "Action", and it's no coincidence; from the very beginning, the program has carried two souls: an openness to the world and a desire to turn ideas into action.
A Space to Grow
The goal has been clear from the start: to give young people an environment in which to train leadership, teamwork, and a spirit of service. In Interact Clubs, the members themselves take care of everything: from conceiving to carrying out activities, learning to read their community's needs and turn them into concrete projects.
Every Club carries out at least two service activities a year: one dedicated to the school or local area, the other designed to promote understanding among different cultures. Sponsoring Rotary and/or Rotaract Clubs accompany young people on this journey, providing training, support, and mentorship.
Interact Today
More than sixty years after its birth, Interact continues to be a starting point for thousands of young people around the world to grow, network, and learn what it means to serve others.
Today, Interact has 14,911 Clubs (12 of which belong to District 2050) and 342,953 members across 145 countries, confirming its status as one of the main international realities dedicated to the growth of young people through leadership, friendship, and service.
Key Milestones
- 1962: The first Interact Club is born at Melbourne High School, Florida
- International + Action: The name encapsulates the program's dual vocation: international and action-oriented
- 12-18 years old: The age group Interact is dedicated to
- Today: 14,911 Clubs and 342,953 members in 145 countries; District 2050 is home to 12 Interact Clubs.