Rotary District 5100
Youth Exchange Tragedy
Jan. 25, 2009. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. Portland, Oregon. On behalf of all of the Rotarians of Rotary District 5100, we would like to express our deepest sympathy to the families of the Rotary Youth Exchange students who were either killed or injured in the incident that occured Saturday evening in Portland, Oregon outside of a no-alcohol venue for youth ages 16-20. These students were participating in the celebration of the birthday of one of our inbound students when this senselss act of violence occured. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, and our focus now is on supporting the surviving victims and their families, and the families and friends of the students who have died.
Immediately after being notified of the tragic incident, Rotary's procedures and personnel in place for such an emergency were activated.
Our top priority is always the safety and the well-being of our Youth Exchange participants, and we are cooperating fully with the law enforcement authorities investigating this matter. This incident is especially tragic when you consider that one of the purposes of our youth exchange program is to further Rotary's commitment to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace.
-Dennis Wickham, District Governor, Rotary District 5100
For media inquiries contact: Scott Bieber (360) 772-0082, Rotary District 5100 Youth Protection Officer
On behalf of all of the Rotarians of Rotary District 5100, we would like to express our sincere appreciation of the outpouring of support we have been receiving both locally and internationally. Many have asked how they can help. Two funds have been established to help the students and families of the victims. FUND INFORMATION.