Rotary Youth Leadership Awards EXIT

RYLA Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is one of Rotary International’s nine structured programs designed to help clubs and districts achieve their service goals in their own communities and in communities abroad, fostering fellowship and goodwill in the process. EXIT

What is RYLA? RYLA events are intensive training programs for youth ages A seminar, camp, or workshop, generally 3-10 days in length, organized by Rotarians at the club or district level. EXIT

RYLA Goals Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth. Provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders. Encourage leadership of youth by youth. Publicly recognize young people who are providing service to their communities. EXIT

RYLA’s Core Curriculum Fundamentals of leadership Ethics of positive leadership Importance of communication skills in effective leadership Problem-solving and conflict management Rotary’s purpose and service to the community Building self-confidence and self-esteem Elements of community and global citizenship EXIT

Benefits of RYLA Rotarians mentor promising youth in their communities. RYLA participants bring new energy to Rotarians, inspire fresh ideas for service, increase support of projects, and help develop future Rotarians. EXIT

RYLA History The first RYLA was held in July 1961 by Rotary Club of Brisbane, Australia. It became an official program of RI in youth participate annually. 70% of Rotary districts participate. EXIT

RYLA Guidelines Highly flexible Age range is Varying event lengths Organized and run by Rotarians Sponsored by several districts jointly, by one district, or by a Rotary club EXIT

Sample Event Themes Create your Vision, Empower the World Leadership: Home & School Ethics in Business & Society Leadership & Ecology Reach for the Future EXIT

Organization Overview Form a RYLA committee. Identify the target age group. Identify the location and speakers. Promote the event to the community, schools, Interact, or Rotaract clubs. Submit RYLA Report Form to RI after the event.RYLA Report FormRI EXIT

Role of District The district RYLA chair, appointed by the district governor, and his or her committee Selects program dates Selects site Develops a budget Determines program agenda Promotes to clubs EXIT

Role of Clubs The club RYLA Committee Selects awardees Provides sponsorship Develops expectations of youth upon return from program Encourages participation in other RI Programs EXIT

Participate RYLA helps youth Develop leadership skills Increase self-confidence Gain exposure to a variety of issues and people Improve career skills and knowledge Meet community leaders and mentors EXIT

Resources The following resources are available on the RI Web site: RYLA section RYLA publications RYLA staff Rotary E-Learning Center EXIT