Eight students from across the globe experienced the best of Minnesota this July, thanks to Rotary’s “Minnesota Summer Camp” program.

The 15- and 16-year-old participants traveled from Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, Ukraine, Romania, Taiwan and Italy for a two-week adventure hosted by Rotarians throughout the state.

The itinerary showcased Minnesota’s natural beauty, culture and community spirit. Highlights included visits to Madeleine Island, Hayward and Bayfield; a scenic bike ride in Stillwater; a rodeo; kayaking; Valleyfair; a lumberjack contest; and sampling Crumbl cookies.

Despite some rainy weather, the final two days were spent boating, floating and camping on Big Island with chaperones from three Rotary clubs: Excelsior (Laura Hotvet), Minnetonka (Mark Magney), and Chanhassen (Maud Duggan, and Tim and Ginger Mulcrone).

This international exchange was organized in collaboration with the North Star Rotary Youth Exchange Program.

“Minnesota Summer Camp brings together young people from around the world to build friendships, experience new cultures, and see the best of our state,” said Ginger Mulcrone, Chanhassen Rotary. “It’s about making connections that last a lifetime.”

For more information on Rotary’s youth programs, visit northstarrotary.com.