Camp RYLA 2026 Staff Information
July 12–18, 2026 | University of Minnesota Crookston
Start Here: Complete These First
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Complete your background check
Staff who did not complete a background check last year will receive an email from InTouch on behalf of Rotary 5580 Youth Exchange. Please complete the process as soon as possible. -
Review and update the 2026 Staff Contact List
Please confirm your contact information and provide your estimated arrival day and time. This information helps us coordinate setup, room access, and check-in logistics. -
Complete the Staff Connection Form
This form is intended to help staff get to know one another, think about how they work best as teammates, and begin building effective facilitation partnerships before arriving at camp. -
Join the RYLA 2026 WhatsApp Group
The WhatsApp group is used to share timely updates before and during camp and helps staff connect more easily. -
Confirm your staff bio and photo are complete
If there is a critical update or issue related to your bio or photo, please contact Shane directly.
Save the Date: Pre-Camp Staff Training
Date: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: Zoom
This mandatory pre-camp training is an opportunity to review important updates, discuss expectations for camp, and cover changes that new and returning staff should understand before arriving at RYLA.
Please watch the RYLA Philosophy video and review the Camp RYLA Staff Expectations document before attending the training call. These resources provide a helpful overview of the philosophy, expectations, and spirit that guide the camp experience.
Before arriving at camp, please review:
- The Friday & Saturday Training Schedule
- The 2026 Camp Schedule
These schedules will help you understand the overall flow of training weekend and the camp week.
Friday Arrival, Check-In & Camp Preparation
Friday is focused on staff arrival, room check-in, new staff orientation, and preparing the UMC campus before campers arrive. For the purposes of Friday orientation and training, “new staff” refers to facilitators and staff members in their first or second year at Camp RYLA.
Please do not interrupt New Staff Orientation in the Evergreen Classroom during Friday evening training.
Friday Check-In & Room Access
New Staff: If you would like to move into your room before training, please arrive between 3:00PM and 5:00PM on Friday to get your room key and move in prior to orientation.
Returning Staff: Returning staff are strongly encouraged to arrive Friday evening to help with setup and get a good night of sleep before Saturday training.
Room keys will be available in the Evergreen Hall lobby during the designated check-in period. If you expect to arrive outside the check-in window, please coordinate with one of the directors in advance.
New Staff Training
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 6:00PM–9:00PM
Location: Evergreen Classroom
This is mandatory for all staff in their first or second year as a facilitator or staff member.
This orientation will cover the basics of camp philosophy, facilitation, and what to expect during the week at RYLA.
Camp Preparation
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 6:00PM–9:00PM
Location: Evergreen Lobby
Every year, there are important tasks that need to be completed to prepare the UMC campus for RYLA.
Staff will help assemble binders, organize supplies, hang signs, prepare materials, and complete other setup tasks before campers arrive.
Saturday All-Staff Training
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 8:00AM–5:30PM
Location: Evergreen Classroom
Saturday training is mandatory for all staff and includes team-building, curriculum review, committee assignments, facilitation techniques, camp logistics, and required safety and harassment policy training.
Planning Resources
Google Drive: Curriculum & Activity Guides
Based on feedback from previous staff surveys, staff have expressed interest in having access to the RYLA Google Drive before camp begins.
Two especially helpful folders are:
- Curriculum Guides: Examples of how past facilitators have structured their week, activities, and discussions.
- Activity Guides: Icebreakers, energizers, reflection activities, and exercises tied to key camp teaching points.
Additional Resources
Questions?
If you have questions, please contact one of the Camp RYLA directors: Nick, Liz, Maria, or Eric.
This page will continue to be updated as additional 2026 schedules, links, and camp details are finalized.