RYLA

What: RYLA 2021 is a program sponsored by Rotary International, and conducted by the Local Rotary Districts on a regional basis. Rotary District 6860 and the Rotary Clubs of Huntsville, Greater Huntsville and  Madison and the Rotaract of Huntsville, plan and conduct the annual North Alabama RYLA Program in partnership with the US Space and Rocket Center.  Individual Rotary Clubs solicit applicants and select those they wish to sponsor.  The three-day program consists of lectures and discussions with skilled and prominent leaders, group and team building activities, leadership training, fellowship, good food, and of course a MINI-SPACE CAMP!

Who: Accomplished High School sophomore, junior and senior students may apply and be considered.  Participants are selected on the basis of their academic achievements, school and community service activities, their hobbies and recreational interests and a short paragraph about, “Why I want to attend RYLA”.  Neatness and accuracy matter.  The sponsoring Rotary Club will select those who attend. Rotary members will be present throughout the weekend along with well-trained employees and counselors of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to supervise.

Where: RYLA 2021 will take place at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.  Students will stay at the center in “camp-type” housing with 24-hour supervision provided by staff counselors. All participants will be following COVID-related protocols as required by the USSRC, including physical distancing, masking, frequent sanitization, etc. Visit www.spacecamp.com to view all that U.S. Space and Rocket Center offers as well as review their COVID Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

When: March 4-6, 2021.  Participants are to arrive on Thursday for check-in and depart Saturday. Scheduled arrival and departure times are to be determined.  During the program days, students will focus on leadership training, team building, and learning about the values of Rotary. The program will also include a “Mini-Space Camp”.  It is mandatory that students stay for the full Program.  No exceptions!

Why: RYLA offers young future leaders an opportunity to meet in an exciting setting to share fellowship, develop leadership skills and learn decision making skills based on the Rotary Four-Way Test: 1) Is it the truth? 2) Is it fair for all concerned? 3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

How: To apply contact the Club President or RYLA Coordinator at your local Rotary Club. To find your local Rotary Club visit www.rotary6860.org

Cost: There are no fees for the student. The registration fee will be paid by the sponsoring Rotary Club.

Deadline: The hard deadline for students to apply to this year’s RYLA conference is January 31, 2021.

Questions: Contact your local Rotary Club RYLA Coordinator or email ryla6860@gmail.com