Rotary Travel Program to Bulgaria

District 7780 Rotarians are invited to apply to take part in a vocational/cultural exchange with Bulgaria. The team will travel to District 2482 in Bulgaria for about two weeks during the spring of 2015, probably late March - early April. We are looking for Rotarians with an interest in culture, broadly defined (history, art, literature, music, performing arts, etc.) and in learning more about Rotary in Bulgaria. Spouses and friends of Rotarians may also apply. The idea is that our team will travel there and share information about themselves and our district and learn about Bulgaria and Rotary in that country. While in Bulgaria, the team will be immersed in the local culture.  Of greatest importance is an openness and willingness to learn - through first-hand and hands-on experiences - about the rich history and culture of Bulgaria.  The team will return to District 7780 to share their experiences at our District Conference on April 24-25.   The team will also be involved with local Rotarians to explore opportunities for future service projects and partnerships. This is to be an exchange so a Bulgarian team will visit our district in May. 

A $1,500 travel allocation will provided for each participant to cover airfare and some costs while in Bulgaria. Team members will be hosted by Bulgarian Rotarians but will be expected to pay for incidental expenses. Funding for the exchange is provided by our Rotary Foundation District Grant.  This exchange is an expanded version of Group Study Exchange (GSE), providing greater opportunity for Rotarian involvement. Our purpose is to promote peace and greater understanding between cultures through sharing and learning. 

Completed applications, signed by a club president, must be received by December 15, 2014.  Interviews will be scheduled in late December or early January.  Complete your application today to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime Rotary opportunity to learn and share culture and life in Bulgaria. 

2015 Cultural Exchange Application Form

Signed, completed applications can be scanned and emailed to:

lobosco@maine.rr.com

Lawrence K. Furbish
District 7780 Governor