Rotary Youth Leadership Camps accepting applications
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, or RYLA for short, is an all-expense paid weekend of training and bonding experiences for high school students. It takes place at the YMCA Camp Edwards in East Troy, Wisconsin.
Students have three weekends to choose from: Dec. 1-4, March 9-12, and April 13-16.
"We must spread the word so every student has a choice if they want to experience this life changing weekend," said Ben Henrikson, RYLA chairman for the Elgin Breakfast Rotary Club.
"This is an amazing opportunity for current high school students and an excellent addition to their resume. Not only do they get a weekend away with other students, but they have fun activities, lodge type accommodations, great speakers, and delicious meals," Henrikson said. "There is so much to do at the camp including nature walks, indoor gymnasium, swimming pool, and much more."
Laurie Bitter, president of the Rotary Club of Elgin Noon, said "Our clubs cover the camp costs so there is no charge to students. We provide transportation to and from the camp. Students are chaperoned by enthusiastic Rotarian volunteers all weekend and parents are welcome to visit anytime. Please share this information with high school students in the area."
The Elgin Rotary Clubs have made student applications available to the following local high schools: Burlington Central, Elgin Academy, Elgin High, Harvest Christian Academy, Larkin, South Elgin, St Edward Central Catholic, and Westminster Christian School.
There is a selection process. Completed, accurate applications should be turned in as soon as possible to be considered. If you plan to attend the December session, have your application in by Nov. 21. Rotary tries to accommodate as many award requests as possible.
If you would like more information or an application sent directly to you, please reach out to elginrotary@gmail.com or call (847) (815) 4895.
Information and applications can also be found at www.rotary5000.org/ryla.htm.
Rotary is a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges.
Rotary connects 1.2 million members of more than 34,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work impacts lives at both the local and international levels, from helping families in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world.
Interact Clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to develop leadership skills while discovering the power of "Service Above Self." Many of these are formed in collaboration with middle schools, high schools and community centers (YMCA, YWCA, Boys & Girls Clubs).
There are currently 14,911 Interact Clubs in 145 countries with over 343,000 members. For details, visit Rotary.org.