What are the Benefits of RYLA?
Meeting new people and having fun are some of the many benefits of attending RYLA, but you also will connect with community leaders to:
- Build communication and problem-solving skills
- Discover strategies for becoming a dynamic leader in your school or community
- Learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers, and peer mentors
- Unlock your potential to turn motivation into action
- Have fun and form lasting friendships
What is RYLA?
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership development program for young people who want to learn new skills, build their confidence, and have fun.
What to expect with RYLA?
RYLA is organized and sponsored by local Rotary Clubs. This event is a collaborative initiative between District 6930 and District 6960, and is held over multiple days (usually a weekend) at the Florida ELKS Youth Camp in Umatilla. Campers are transported by charter bus from their local area to the camp and back. All activities are supervised by Rotarians and in the case of physical activities, trained individuals employed by the Elks Youth Camp will provide support and assistance (ropes course, archery, canoeing).
Individuals that would like to participate must complete the online RYLA application. Participants are selected by the local clubs. Completing an application does not automatically mean you will be chosen to attend. There is no cost for the RYLA program – local clubs cover the cost of the experience including transportation to and from your local area via charter buses.
Campers are expected to participate in all of the activities, which include workshops and discussions, as well as lots of outdoor activities. Although equipped with most modern amenities, the host location is a rustic, outdoor camp environment. Campers will live in cabins that sleep up to 9, and spend most of their time in casual, comfortable clothing.
Don’t just believe us…..hear what the campers at our 2024 Fall RYLA had to say about their experience! We challenged each cabin to create a short video promoting RYLA to their peers….and here are a few of the submissions!
RYLA Student Videos
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How can I participate?
RYLA participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs in either District 6930 or District 6960. Contact your local Rotary Club to find out more about RYLA in your area.
District 6930 | District 6960
Camp RYLA
Open to High School Students 9th - 11th Grade
Camp Location
Florida Elk’s Youth Camp
24175 SE Hwy 450
Umatilla, FL 32784
Application Process if for FIRST TIME ATTENDEES!
SPACE IS LIMITED! All applications are to be completed online. Only new students (first time attendees) can apply.
Students are encouraged to seek out their local Rotary Club before applying. The application will ask you to select a Rotary Club and provide contact information.
Submitted applications will be evaluated by the Organizing Committee. Submitting an application does not guarantee attendance.
Students must live in District 6930 (Titusville to Boca Raton) or District 6960 (Marco Island to Bradenton) in order to be considered.
Students interested in returning as a Junior Counselor.
There is limited space for Junior Counselors, and any RYLA graduate that wishes to be considered should contact their District RYLA Chair to indicate their interest.