Sycamore High School Interact President Ashley Olson and members Lily Krushnick Lili Jennings, and Annie Brandt this week presented a detailed PowerPoint on their experience at RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). Their three-day experience was the first Rotary RYLA event since the beginning of the Covid pandemic. The District 6420 program was held May 6-8 at the Lorado Taft center near Oregon.
The presenters summarized each day’s intensive training as well as food highlights. Day 1 focused on team building. This included several activities under the banner of SurvivoRYLA with names like “Minefield” and “Chicken Game.” Motivational speakers Carl and Dianna Cole urged attendees to “seize the day” with service to others. The day included a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Day 2 included speakers Andrea Gibbs, explaining how to prepare for professional interviews, and Kirstin Pope on using Yoga as a tool to step out of one’s comfort zone. Rotarians Tom Brooks and Gary Francque did a presentation highlighting Rotary Youth Exchange, Water Projects, and Interact. Day 3 began with what were described as “formidable” cinnamon rolls and involved awards presentations (some acknowledged to be on the humorous side). Closing speaker Bill Johnson urged attendees to “make a difference NOW” as they departed for home.
Olson, Krushnick, Jennings, and Brandt all remarked on how participating in RYLA made them learn more about themselves and how to step out of their comfort zones. They said their camp experience makes them want to go out and make a difference in the world.