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What is Rotary International?
Rotary International is an international service organization that is
over 100 years old. It is organized into local clubs in more than 150
countries, which work to fulfill the goals and objectives of Rotary
International. Membership in local clubs is comprised of men and women
from various occupations and professions. Rotary has a strong emphasis
on promoting high ethical standards among its members and working across
the globe for world understanding and peace. The RYLA program is a key
element of Rotary’s program and is designed to equip outstanding young
people to become effective future leaders.
Where did the RYLA program originate?
RYLA began in Australia in the 1960s as a program to identify and
develop those young people with leadership skills. These young people
become very positive influences and role models once they return to
their schools. Our district held its first camp in 1996 and has
influenced the lives of approximately 800 young people in our district
in that time.
Who is chosen to attend a RYLA camp?
Each Rotary Club in District 5830 is eligible to award scholarships to
the camp. Applicants are recommended by their high school counselors,
teachers and principals on the basis of service work performed,
leadership ability, academic performance and citizenship. To be
eligible, students must be high-school juniors. Representatives of
their local Rotary Clubs will interview applicants and then make the
selections. The scholarships that are awarded cover all expenses of
attending Camp RYLA. The local Rotary Club will provide round-trip
transportation to Camp Pirtle. One hundred sixty scholarship winners
will attend this year’s RYLA sessions.
What do the students actually do at a
RYLA camp?
Students will arrive at Camp Pirtle on Friday afternoon. The camp will
conclude on Sunday afternoon. The curriculum is comprised of small focus
groups that tackle various problems and work together for solutions.
Group dynamics, counseling, leadership styles and risk taking are all
subjects which are discussed and taught. Also, the curriculum has a
strong emphasis on challenging physical obstacles, which must be
overcome on the outdoor obstacle course. So the RYLA adventure has both
indoor and outdoor components and is both mentally and physically
challenging. It is an experience the student will never forget.
Who are the instructors at a RYLA Camp?
All of the instructors are very experienced in working with young
people. Many of them come from college settings and from the business
world. Select Rotarians and distinguished visitors provide the students
with excellent role models and information resources.
Exactly where will this year’s RYLA Camp
be held?
District 5830 of Rotary International has arranged to use the
outstanding facilities at the George W. Pirtle Scout Reservation near
Carthage, Texas. Students will be housed and will utilize the food
service facilities at the camp.
What about medical emergencies at Camp
Pirtle?
The staff at Camp Pirtle is experienced in handling the medical needs of
its visitors. Each student’s physical safety is a top priority and
necessary medical assistance is readily available. All students will be
covered by supplemental insurance provided by the Boy Scouts of America.
Why would a high school junior want to
attend a RYLA camp?
First, only the most outstanding high-school juniors from the region
will be invited to attend. Therefore, students will associate with the
best students area schools have to offer and competition for the slots
will be keen. Second, attendance at leadership camps such as RYLA will
be of benefit to students when they prepare their college admission
applications. College admission officials are impressed with students
who are selected for and attend camps such as RYLA. Third, RYLA
graduates will be more confident and self assured in a variety of
decision-making and leadership situations they will confront later in
life.
How will the students travel to the RYLA
Camp site at the
George Pirtle Scout Reservation near Carthage?
Representatives of the Rotary Club that select the campers will provide
transportation to and from the camp.
What if I still have more questions?
Who can we speak with to get more
information?
Contact our district RYLA Coordinator
Dave Eisele
dte@parisorthopedic.com
Cell: (214) 608-8111
Office: (903) 737-0018
Additionally, you may contact any member of the district RYLA committee. |
