FAQ's
Questions about RYLA and Why You Should Go!
What is Rotary?
Rotary is one of the largest volunteer service organizations in the world! Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.
Ok, then what is Rotaract?
Rotaract clubs bring together people ages 18 and older to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun through community and international service projects.
Umm, Is Rotary religious?
No! Full Stop. Rotary is a non-political, non-religious humanitarian organization. (this is an important piece in my experience – it’s the question students are often uncomfortable to ask me particularly given its past location)
No! Full Stop. Rotary is a non-political, non-religious humanitarian organization. (this is an important piece in my experience – it’s the question students are often uncomfortable to ask me particularly given its past location)
What can I expect from RYLA?
RYLA, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, is an engaging 4-day leadership event that connects you with like-minded individuals. This no-cost program (that's the award) is for individuals 18-30 residing in the communities from Hope to Port Coquitlam in Canada and Blaine/Sumas to Everett in Washington State. The exact schedule of RYLA will be provided on the first day of the program. You can expect a variety of speakers and activities that will help grow your leadership skills.
RYLA, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, is an engaging 4-day leadership event that connects you with like-minded individuals. This no-cost program (that's the award) is for individuals 18-30 residing in the communities from Hope to Port Coquitlam in Canada and Blaine/Sumas to Everett in Washington State. The exact schedule of RYLA will be provided on the first day of the program. You can expect a variety of speakers and activities that will help grow your leadership skills.
Who is RYLA for?
RYLA is for anyone between the ages of 18 – 30 that are emerging or already experienced leader. We are strict with our age group, meaning you must be at least 18 years old by May 9, 2024.
RYLA is for anyone between the ages of 18 – 30 that are emerging or already experienced leader. We are strict with our age group, meaning you must be at least 18 years old by May 9, 2024.
Why should I attend RYLA?
RYLA is an exciting opportunity to have fun, develop your leadership skills, make lasting friendships, develop personally, and grow as a leader. The RYLA program is entirely organized and facilitated by past RYLA participants who found it a life-changing and enormously positive experience. From the moment you arrive, facilitators will greet and introduce you to others and then lead you through the weekend’s activities in small groups. RYLA Attendees are very diverse – we welcome everyone! Whether you are new to the leadership journey and just putting your toe in the water as to how you might be able to grow as a leader OR you are a seasoned artist, athletic leader, or gamer extraordinaire with a lot to give and a wee bit of hesitation as to how – if you believe you could benefit from having your leadership potential recognized as you are, please join us!
RYLA is an exciting opportunity to have fun, develop your leadership skills, make lasting friendships, develop personally, and grow as a leader. The RYLA program is entirely organized and facilitated by past RYLA participants who found it a life-changing and enormously positive experience. From the moment you arrive, facilitators will greet and introduce you to others and then lead you through the weekend’s activities in small groups. RYLA Attendees are very diverse – we welcome everyone! Whether you are new to the leadership journey and just putting your toe in the water as to how you might be able to grow as a leader OR you are a seasoned artist, athletic leader, or gamer extraordinaire with a lot to give and a wee bit of hesitation as to how – if you believe you could benefit from having your leadership potential recognized as you are, please join us!
How do I get selected to attend RYLA?
Generally, participants are in contact with a local Rotary Club which will provide sponsorship and vouch for their participation in RYLA. If you do not have a sponsoring Rotary Club, completing your registration form will be the first step in getting selected. The RYLA committee will then review the application and if you are successful, will work with you to find a sponsoring Rotary club. There are only 60 spots available for participants.
Generally, participants are in contact with a local Rotary Club which will provide sponsorship and vouch for their participation in RYLA. If you do not have a sponsoring Rotary Club, completing your registration form will be the first step in getting selected. The RYLA committee will then review the application and if you are successful, will work with you to find a sponsoring Rotary club. There are only 60 spots available for participants.
When is RYLA?
Thursday May 9 (arrival is from 12:00pm - 2:00pm) to Sunday May 12, 2024 (ending by 2:00pm). Arriving late or leaving early is disruptive to others and does not give you the full benefit of the program. As a condition of attending RYLA, you must commit to attending the 4 days of the program.
Thursday May 9 (arrival is from 12:00pm - 2:00pm) to Sunday May 12, 2024 (ending by 2:00pm). Arriving late or leaving early is disruptive to others and does not give you the full benefit of the program. As a condition of attending RYLA, you must commit to attending the 4 days of the program.
Where is RYLA held?
For RYLA 2024 we have rented the beautiful Camp Squeah in Hope, BC! All accommodations and food will be provided (all dietary restrictions/needs can be accommodated; just let us know on your registration forms!).
The shared accommodations are camp-style bunk rooms that sleep 8. Cabins will be separated by gender. A gender-separated central washroom serves the cabins, with many showers and toilet stalls.
The delicious food will be served in the facility's dining hall. You will be provided with snacks, along with the following meals:
- Thursday: Dinner
- Friday: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
- Saturday: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
- Sunday: Breakfast, Lunch
What is expected from me?
RYLA facilitators have three expectations of you throughout the weekend: ATTEND, PARTICIPATE, and HAVE FUN!! After the weekend is over (and you are sad to leave – we promise you will be!), the Rotary club that sponsored you will reach out to ask you to share your thoughts about your experience at RYLA with them. Rotarians are super accommodating and will ensure you feel comfortable sharing your RYLA experience.
Do I need to have anything for RYLA?
A specific packing list will be sent to participants closer to the date. Participants should expect to bring toiletries, clothing for 4 days (warm clothing at night is recommended), close-toed shoes, sleeping bag and pillow.
A specific packing list will be sent to participants closer to the date. Participants should expect to bring toiletries, clothing for 4 days (warm clothing at night is recommended), close-toed shoes, sleeping bag and pillow.
Personal Item
Bring an item that says something about you. i.e. musical instrument, craft, hobby, particular interest, vocation etc. You may wish to use the item when introducing yourself on the first day of the program.
Bring an item that says something about you. i.e. musical instrument, craft, hobby, particular interest, vocation etc. You may wish to use the item when introducing yourself on the first day of the program.
Personal Devices
Based on the location of the facility, cell service is limited. As a program requirement, we ask that participants do not use their devices for the duration of the event.
Based on the location of the facility, cell service is limited. As a program requirement, we ask that participants do not use their devices for the duration of the event.