Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
Our dedicated staff of volunteers can’t wait to welcome you to what many past campers refer to as a life-changing week. Join us for a chance to learn more about yourself, grow your skills, and form lasting friendships.
I stepped out of my comfort zone SO much it has changed me more than anything. I am strong and confident and can keep my head held up high while being humble and helping others around me. I AM SO HONORED TO HAVE COME TO THIS CAMP 🙂 THE most amazing experience EVER.
”
– Michelle T. 2019
What are the benefits?
Connect with leaders from around the Rotary district to:
- Build communication and problem-solving skills
- Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
- Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and your peers
- Unlock how to turn motivation into action
- Have fun and form lasting friendships
Who should apply?
- High schoolers in Rotary District 5580 who portray leadership qualities
- Students entering their senior year (preferably) or junior year of high school
- Individuals actively involved in school activities, including: athletics, fine arts, academic clubs, and student government
- Individuals with volunteer and/or work experience
- Students with good academic records
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I came here, but if I did have expectations, it would have blown them out of the water. I learned so much about leadership and myself; the whole experience was really empowering.
”
– Mike F. 2019
MISSION + VISION:
Empower youth to lead
Rotary International District 5580's RYLA Camp strives to help high school seniors identify, understand, and develop their personal leadership qualities. While students comes to camp at different points in their leadership development, the facilitators and staff work closely with each student to help them build on their strengths. While no camp experience is identical, you can check out a sample schedule here, the focus of camp remains consistent:
- Help campers understand the fundamentals and challenges of being a leader
- Introduce and refine leadership skills (e..g, communication and problem solving)
- Identify strategies for campers to take active and positive roles in their communities
CURRICULUM + PRESENTATIONS:
Discover new leadership abilities
RYLA uses a number of tools to help you refine the leadership skills you already possess and helps to identify ways you can use those skills when you return home to your community. At the end of the week, you will leave with valuable insights about yourself and others around you. You’ll experience engaging presentations, experiential activities, small-group discussions, and connecting with your peers. Our curriculum includes:
- 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
- Personality Indicators
- Forming teams
- Rotary Four-Way Test
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITIES:
Learn by overcoming new challenges
RYLA uses hands-on activities to provide practical demonstrations for the lessons being taught. By combining a philosophy of "Challenge by Choice" with a safe and supportive atmosphere, you’re encouraged to take measured risks and try new things, such as:
- Low-ropes course
- Community service projects
- Cross-cultural simulation
- Working through activies and challenges
- Leading aspects of camps via committees
SMALL GROUPS + TEAM WORK:
Discuss and exchange new ideas
Discuss and exchange new ideas Volunteer facilitators work with you in small groups to connect the lessons throughout the week with your past experiences and what you hope to accomplish when you return home from camp. RYLA strives to create a safe atmosphere free from negative pressures and distractions where you can find new ways to challenge yourself. Throughout the week, you will collaboratively explore how to:
- Communicate with others and work across differences
- Resolve conflicts
- Act with integrity
- Be a role model for others
FUN + RECREATION:
Have fun and meet new friends
Planned and impromptu activities are occur through the week to give RYLArians the opportunity to meet peers from across District 5580 , learn about one another, and start to build friendships that last a lifetime.
- Networking Dinner
- RYLA Challenges
- Dance and game night
- Talent show
Interested and ready to apply?