Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, or RYLA, is a youth leadership development camp that is provided by Rotarians on an annual basis, at no cost to campers. The camp is five days and four nights of non-stop fun, food and personal development. The camp, commonly referred to as a life changing experience by its alumni, is beneficial to potential leaders that need an extra boost of confidence, as well as established leaders that need to learn when to step aside and let others take the point.
This year’s camp runs from July 14-18 at Central Christian Camp and Conference Center near Guthrie. Campers are treated to four meals a day and a virtually unlimited supply of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. With supervision from Rotarians, the camp is run entirely by its alumni. Some of the camp staff were campers just last year, while others have returned for as many as ten years, giving something back to the program that has been so beneficial to them, as well as exemplifying Rotary’s Motto, “Service Above Self”.
Additionally, on Saturday evening during camp, our annual Chili Cookoff will be held. All Rotarians in District 5750, as well as Camp alumni, are invited back to renew old friendships, socialize, introduce their families to camp and yes, eat chili. Chili is provided by clubs from across the District and typically includes approximately 40 different recipes ranging from hot to mild and featuring a wide variety of ingredients. This year’s Chili Cookoff will take place on Saturday, July 15 beginning at 6:00PM and lasting until everyone leaves, whenever that happens to be. If your club is interested in bringing chili, please contact Andrew Holder with OKC Midtown Rotary Club.