Being a Host Club to an exchange youth through the Lions Youth Camps and Exchange (YCE) Program is guaranteed to be a rewarding experience. You’ll share in each other’s culture through conversations and cultural activities while showing a young person what Lions International is all about.
Here are five frequently-asked questions about what the role and responsibilities are of a Host Club:
- What is a YCE Host Club?
A YCE Host Club is a Lions club that leads the charge in supporting the club, district or multiple district’s YCE Program. This club helps introduce the spirit of Lions to exchange youth by including them in club meetings, service projects and cultural activities. - What is the financial responsibility of a Host Club?
Depending on your YCE Program, some Host Clubs may pay or reimburse any “planned expenses” sustained by Host Families during the visit of the youth since Host Families provide room and board. If your club is part of a multiple district or district hosting an international camp, all costs related to boarding and hosting of the youth while attending the camp will be the responsibility of your club, multiple district or district.
- What are the main responsibilities of a Host Club?
A Host Club’s main priority is to help recruit and secure Host Families, and remain the point of contact for them throughout the duration of the YCE Program dates. Other responsibilities include organizing and financing international camp, and representing Lions to exchange youth and their families.
- What kind of insurance is needed to run a YCE Program as a Host Club?
The YCE Program and its participating affiliates are covered by the general Lions International insurance liability, which means that this insurance would likely respond if a YCE chairperson or program affiliate were determined to be legally liable for damages in the event of an accident or emergency. It is the responsibility of your club to verify that the youth has sufficient travel, accident, life, personal property, health and liability insurance to cover any and all contingencies during the YCE Program. If your club is hosting an international camp, your club should do research in case you need to secure separate insurance coverage for the camp itself depending on camp activities.
- Is there an international standard for camp fees?
No, Lions International does not require Host Clubs to charge a camp fee for international camp. It is up to the discretion of the YCE chairperson and YCE Program affiliates whether or not they would like to charge a camp fee.
Want to learn more about being a Host Club for the YCE Program? Take a look at the new YCE Host Club Handbook!
Erica Roche is a program development specialist for Lions Clubs International.
