RYLA - What it's all about

 About RYLA

District 5050's RYLA program focuses on ages 18 - 25 and runs one program each year (usually in May or early June) for four days. Our RYLA is a non-traditional leadership program.

RYLA borrows a concept from the Youth Exchange program to create a culture that is new to the participant and designed to have the participant think "outside the box" in an open, accepting environment.

More than merely awards, RYLA is an opportunity for youth– to hear from professional speakers at no cost to the candidate, to participate in a four day program with like-minded individuals, to have fun with group activities, to form lasting friendships and to develop and grow as a person and as a leader.

Candidates can be male or female, married or single. Since District 5050 clubs are in both WashingtonState and British Columbia, we normally have an equal mix of Americans and Canadians.

The average number of participants is around 70, but can range from 50 to 80 depending on the number sponsored by clubs. The participants are broken down into smaller groups of about 5 or 6 participants with a youth facilitator (called a Fac). We find the candida coming from academics, sports, arts or other parts of the community. We have both verbal types and quiet ones who lead by their behaviour and by example. We have candidates that don't believe they are leaders, but learn that they are and can be leaders. Candidates can be male or female, married or single.

Although RYLA is organized by a Committee, the actual program is largely run the two Head Facs and their team of Facs, with Rotarians assisting. Costs are paid by the sponsoring Rotary clubs.