Learning by experiencing is the foundation of the Lions International Youth Exchange Program. The Youth Exchange chairperson must be certified by Lions International.

Since the program's introduction in 1961, there have been thousands of young adults ages 15-21 who have traveled to other Lions countries Lions clubs that have sponsored youth exchangees. Lions clubs that have hosted youth exchangees in their country with Lions-approved host families who have welcomed youth exchangees into their homes.

The objectives of the Lions Youth Exchange Program are:

• to bring young people into contact with youth and adults of other countries.
• to share family and community life of another culture.
• to promote international understanding and good will throughout the
  world of Lionism.

The Lions Youth Exchange Program fulfills the First Object of the Lions:

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

The Lions Youth Exchange Program is not intended for tourism or academic studies. During the four to six-week exchange, program participants reside with two or three Lion-approved host families. Through this home stay opportunity, young people learn about life in another culture.