When is RYLA 2023?
RYLA 2023 is Sunday June 25th – Wednesday June 28th.
What time should I arrive?
All participants are expected to arrive at 8:30 am on Sunday, June 25th, 2023
I have other plans on Sunday morning. May I arrive late?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. In the past we have allowed participants to arrive late, but they never really seem to catch up. RYLA is a fast-paced conference. It is not fair to the rest of your group who will depend on you to be there.
What time is RYLA over?
Closing ceremony for RYLA begins on Wednesday, June 28th at 5:15 PM. Parents are invited to attend and are encouraged to arrive just before 5:00 PM to have time to walk to the waterfront (3/4 mile walk). The closing ceremony will be followed by a Barbecue at 6:15 pm. Parents may attend the barbecue by purchasing 1 ticket for $12.00 or 2 for $20.00 at registration on the first day of camp. Checks for pre-purchase can be mailed to the mailing address above. There is no charge for RYLA participants. Participants are released to their parents after the closing ceremony so it is estimated that they will leave at 6:30 pm at the earliest.
What should I bring to RYLA?
♦ Consult the Equipment list for personal belongings and necessities.
♦ Parents who plan on attending Wednesday Night BBQ should bring cash on registration day for tickets.
♦ Students need the following items completed BEFORE Camp in order to participate:
1. Medical Form – (Either BSA form by itself or accompanied by a doctor’s form). You should have already submitted this form by June 1st, but if you have not, bring it with you to camp. You will not participate without it.
2. Any medications required during the week. Do not pack medication in your luggage. Be prepared to turn it in to medical staff.
3. Any updated information that has changed since your application. Students will not be permitted to travel with anybody other than a parent or guardian unless their names are on the registration forms that were submitted for registration to RYLA.
4. Photo Release Form is required.
How should I dress for Camp?
The equipment list is designed to help you prepare for four days and three nights. Prepare for rain, as well as heat and/or cool evenings—possibly even cold. RYLA is an OUTDOOR program and will continue regardless of weather. It is best to dress in layers so you can adjust as needed. Having too many clothes is much better than not having enough. Students should dress appropriately for a coed camping environment. A good rule of thumb is: if your school wouldn’t permit you to wear it to Phys Ed class, don’t wear it to RYLA.
Is there a telephone on site?
Yes, there is a phone available to participants to contact their parents/guardians only. DO NOT BRING CELL PHONES. They will not be protected from the elements, and you will not be permitted to use them at camp. Facilitators will have their cell phones for emergencies only.
One of my friends is going, can we share a tent? Or be in the same group?
No, the LEG’s are compiled so that there will be no two people from the same school together. LEG’s and campsites are arranged in random order. Our policy gives everyone a chance to start fresh.
Can I bring my cell phone, tablet, laptop, hairdryer, or curling iron?
No. RYLA is intentionally built to be an outdoor, electronic free camp. Electricity is limited to the dining hall, camp offices, and bathroom facilities. There will be no use for electronic devices at camp. There will also be no protection from theft or weather damage so please do not bring anything electronic with you. We encourage to disconnect as much as possible.
Do I need money?
No Rotary District 7780 and your local Rotary Clubs have taken care of all expenses (a $750.00 value!) for your week at camp by providing you with a scholarship. The RYLA staff highly encourages you to formally thank the Rotary Club that provided the scholarship for you to attend, upon your return from camp. Many clubs invite you back sometime in the fall to speak at one of their meetings.
How do I arrange transportation?
Participants are responsible for their travel arrangements. Students are NOT allowed to drive themselves or their friends to RYLA. You may contact your sponsoring Rotary Club to assist you with transportation.
What is Rotary?
Rotary is an international service organization which you can be a part of to make a difference in your community and around the world. Rotary is one of the largest international service organizations in the world with more than 28,000 clubs in 160 counties. District 7780 consists of 40 clubs in Maine and New Hampshire. Rotarians are dedicated to humanitarian service, high ethical standards in business and their professions and the promotion of world understanding and peace.
Why RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards)?
Strong leaders must continuously work on their practice. Leadership skills and principles are learned, not inherited. Rotary clubs around the world are dedicated to helping young people develop their skills to the fullest. We believe that RYLA will assist young people to realize their potential and to adapt to experiences within their life and their communities. RYLA empowers participants to join other young people from across our District. RYLA participants come together to exchange ideas, plans and opinions with other talented and energetic people in a supportive atmosphere, free from pressure and distractions.
What type of advice would give to a student attending?
Show up and be open to the experience. The RYLA curriculum expands on positive youth development (PYD) that empowers leaders to find their voice, actively listen, and build on your unique strengths. Just be ready to be you!
What do we do for fun?
We build fun into every day. We are out in nature and enjoy a good smore’s at the campfire and have time for enjoying the waterfront of Panther Pond. Waterfront activities and High Ropes Course Challenges are planned for all participants, weather permitting.
What if my parents or I have more questions?
Contact District 7780 Co-Directors: Emily Rumble and Sam Klemarczyk via email at emily@ryla7780.org, sam@ryla7780.org or visit the RYLA website www.ryla7780.org