A Rotary goal is to help young people develop leadership skills and self-confidence. One way is through Rotary Youth Leadership Awakening, or RYLA, which is a training program for young leaders between their junior and senior high school years. Participants attend an all-expensive 6-day camp at Grizzly Creek Ranch in Portola joined by 100+ talented young people. This year as our RYLA representative, Quincy Rotary sponsored Skylar. Sky reflected:

“RYLA was an amazing experience! I learned so much about myself, how to trust, and I made so many new and genuine connections. I learned to be vulnerable and how to listen and be there for others. Most importantly, I learned that mistakes don't define who I am; instead, they help shape who I can become. I also learned how crucial it is to speak and think positively about ourselves, as that's how we ultimately see ourselves.”

Skylar spent 5 nights and 6 days at camp (with no phone). The ability to connect with others and make friends in a new environment is a valuable life skill, and often more challenging for students who grew up in small communities. Skylar is grateful for Quincy Rotary’s sponsorship; she thought the experience was life changing.