Bend Belluno Sister Cities Cultural Exchange

BEN ARRIVATA                   DI                       EVENTI                       SCAMBI                   METTE IN EVIDENZA              CONTATTO

Belluno students make Bend their home

Our family had the privilege and pleasure of being a part of the 2018  Bend-Belluno Sister City Rotary Exchange.  Although at first, I was a little apprehensive about my daughter fitting in with another family little apprehensive about my daughter fitting in with another family (would she behave, be polite, communicate), and even more so about a stranger coming to our home, I can tell you that this was the best experience we could have hoped for.  Our Italian sister/daughter instantly became a part of our family and we knew from day 1 our hearts grew three sizes.  I believe both girls enjoyed their time immensely and truly grew from the experience.  It is hard to put into words all we gained from the exchange, but I think we all have more confidence, awareness, and aspirations because of the exchange. Thank you to all of the Rotarians who
put in countless time and money into making this beautiful opportunity available.

Bend students enjoy a evening dessert learning about their upcoming summer exchange first in Belluno then hosting their match in Bend.

While the goal of our Summer "Cross Cultural Exchange" is to allow Belluno students to experience life as a Bend teenager host families showed their Rotary match some of their favorite places and activities in Bend.

Six Bend students greeted by host Belluno students at Venice airport.  The Belluno group of greeters number more than 20.

Bend students make Belluno their home

Six Bend Students with Steve Lelli, from rotary and Anna Pollino, Bend Belluno sister city group and Ziggy

Many amazing group trips planned by the Belluno host families and Belluno Rotary club.  Kids learn about Dolomites, Vajont Dam disaster in 1963 and group activities.  Also visited villa Gaggia in Belluno where history was made in 1943 at meeting between Hitler and Mussolini.

Bend Students Greeted at Venice Airport

 The  Summer Vacation - That Lasts a Life Time

Preparation Begins for Students and Parents

Mallory and Jenn Roberts shared their experience with students.  Jenn as host mom and Mallory as reciprocal student last year.

Sandi and Anna, with 2018 Bend Students learning about Belluno and Italian language and culture.

2018 Youth Exchange