The deadline is less than a month away for those wanting to be considered for the Group Study Exchange team headed to Russia next year. All local Rotary International clubs in District 5690, which includes central and western Kansas and the Oklahoma panhandle, will be accepting applications until November 1 for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The unique program provides cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for young business people and professionals. Team members experience the host country’s culture and institutions, observe how their vocations are practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, and compare ideas.

The Group Study Exchange (GSE) application process is open to all residents between 25 and 40 years of age in the 5690 Rotary District who are not a Rotarian or the spouse, child, or grandchild of a current Rotarian. Those interested and qualified, or employers wanting a unique leadership enrichment experience for a developing staffer, should contact their local Rotary club for details.

In the Hutchinson area, applications can be obtained from Jade Piros, the local Rotary International Service Grants Chair, at 620-662-3391 or email jadep@hutchchamber.com.

In the Wichita area, applications can be obtained from Steve Woods, District GSE Chair, at 316-683-3561 (office) and 316-655-2283 (cell) or email GSEWoods@aol.com.

Additional information is also available at:
www.rotary.org/en/ServiceAndFellowship/MakeConnections/GroupStudyExchange/Pages/ridefault.aspx.

The selected team will depart April 29, 2012, and return May 21. The exchange is with District 2220 in the European area of Russia. Its Rotary Clubs are located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novgorod, Volgograd, Ekaterinburg, Kazan, and Perm. The final itinerary is not yet finalized, but the trip will be designed to provide participants an opportunity to experience a fascinating country in a manner few tourists