Snow and rain couldn't stop 11th grade student leaders from 53 schools across San Diego and Imperial Counties from enjoying their Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) experience April 25-27 at Idyllwild Pines Camp. With the help of 13 RYLA Alumni conducting the program and 39 Rotarians and Rotaractors facilitating student families, the leadership conference featured inspiring speakers, deep discussions, and a lot of fun. Students left RYLA motivated to implement "Service Above Self" in an even bigger way in their schools and community.
RYLA is a program that originated with Rotary International and began in Rotary District 5340 in 1972. RYLA encourages servant leadership in youth by recognizing and rewarding deserving 11th grade students who are chosen to attend RYLA as an "award" for their past and present leadership and service activities. These select young people attend an all-expenses-paid camp where they are inspired by a diverse group of exceptional speakers, make life-long friends through fellowship activities, and discuss the ethical and social issues of today.
Thank you to all of the sponsoring clubs for supporting this life-changing event for young people in our district.
