About Twin Club

 

What are Twin Clubs?

 

Twin clubs are two clubs from different Rotary International (RI) countries that have established strong ties and have agreed to team up to complete a special program. This may be in the form of an International service project, a friendship exchange or a cultural exchange. Clubs are invited to register this relationship as a part of this activity and are encouraged to undertake a joint program or project in developing the international understanding.

 

The Aims of Twinning

 

The key aims of the Rotaract twinning program are;

• To emphasise the international aspect of Rotaract service and friendship

• To establish a long-term relationship with another club that will lead to ongoing and effective projects

• To enhance the understanding of another culture and each other’s differences

• To further international understanding and foster goodwill

 

How to Twin – The Twinning Process

 

• Clubs must be from two different districts/countries

• Programs and/or projects must involve personal participation of Rotaractors; at least 1/3 of the member base should be responsible for the initial relationship building and further maintenance of the program

• Clubs must complete and sign the Twin Clubs Agreement Certificate provided by E.R.I.C.

• Clubs must report their Twin club relationship to E.R.I.C. by completing the Rotaract Twin Clubs Information Form provided by E.R.I.C.

 

Determining Club Compatibility

 

Finding a suitable twin club should be a club effort. The concerns and opinions of every club member must be taken into account if the match is to be successful. In the search for a twin club, clubs should be able to identify their interests, strengths and weaknesses. A brief summary of the club should be written up for potential matches and future correspondence. When selecting a twin club, clubs may want to consider clubs

that:

• Hold similar interests

• Have faced similar challenges

• Possess expertise in an area that they would like to improve upon

• Are located in a geographical region of interest

• Have a common language or resources for translation/interpretation

 

Resources for Finding a Partner

 

After determining what type of club would be an appropriate match, the next step is to look for a club that meets the established criteria. Below are a few ideas for finding a partner:

• Speak to your Sponsoring Rotary Club/s to see if they already have a relationship with another club

• Contact your Country Representative, District Rotaract Representative and/or District International Services Coordinator to see if they are in contact with anyone suitable

• Attend International Rotaract meetings such as INTEROTA, EUCO, International RYLA

• Look at the World Rotaract Directory

• Seek assistance from E.R.I.C or RI

• Subscribe to Rotaract communication groups on the internet such as rotaractnet@yahoogroups.com, facebook

• Use search engines on the internet

• Consider contacting the local Rotaract Clubs that are based in the town that is twinned with yours

 

Establishing a Relationship

 

Careful planning and clear communication is essential to establishing a strong relationship. Like any other worthwhile project, twinning takes time and effort. Ensuring that each club has a clear understanding of its role and responsibilities in the partnership is key. To formalise the Twin Club relationship, clubs should sign a letter of agreement, which outlines the goals and length of the partnership. Some ideas for developing a strong relationship include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Establish a penpal/email network (e.g. yahoogroups, facebook groups) for all club members to use

• Undertake an international service project or social service project

• Participate in a friendship or cultural exchange

• Plan and hold an international projects fair

• Exchange project ideas or club program ideas

• Hold a video conference or web-based club meeting

• Exchange handicrafts and local products

• Organize an international event

• Host your twin clubs members in your city

You may use your imagination and creativity to come up with innovative ideas for building your twin club relationship.