Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Program

Watch the video below to learn more about the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Program!

Information for Students and Parents

RYLA is a Rotary sponsored youth leadership training program for high school age students. Each year more than 9,000 young people are sponsored in RYLA programs by Rotary clubs in over 25 countries. Rotarians provide the RYLA program FREE to all participating students.

Rotary District 6580 sponsors an annual RYLA program at Bradford Woods, which is owned and operated by Indiana University and is located in rural Morgan County. The RYLA program takes full advantage of the beautiful wooded setting. Under the guidance of trained facilitators, RYLA participants gain valuable leadership skills through a variety of "learn by doing" opportunities. The 2011 program will be held November 4, 5, & 6.

BRADFORD WOODS — CHALLENGE EDUCATION

RYLA participants sleep in modern cabins and spend most of their day in the outdoor setting. Daily activities are a part of the Bradford Woods Outdoor Challenge Education Program. Some of the activities are only inches from the ground while others are a bit more daring. All require the participants to take a risk, give 100% and be a supportive member of a team. All RYLA students grow in self confidence, gain insights into positive group behaviors and interactions, develop leadership skills and have a lot of fun in the process.

OBJECTIVES OF THE ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARDS PROGRAM ARE:

To further demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for youth.
To encourage and assist selected youth leaders and potential leaders in methods of responsible and effective voluntary youth leadership by providing them with a unique training experience.
To encourage continued and strengthened leadership for youth by youth.
To publicly recognize the high qualities of many young people who are rendering a service to their communities as youth leaders.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING TEENS:

Local Rotary Clubs will make all arrangements and pay all conference fees, so it is imperative that registered students make the commitment to attend the RYLA Conference for the entire weekend. Therefore, potential RYLA students should check the dates carefully before committing. The only other requirement is to come with an open mind and a desire to learn and have fun!