Camp RYLA 2026, by all accounts, was a raving success! Even though it has only been few days since we closed out the in-person camp program there is always lots going on for the students to continue the engagements from camp. Cabin groups are still making sure they keep in touch with each other throughout the summer months.
Camp 2026 was the 36th year for Camp RYLA built on a multi-decade of Club support as well as the grit and experiences gained as over 7000 students have been able to attend during this period. During the current Camp RYLA 2026, 190 campers and 85 staff members came together to produce, once again, the best camp yet!
Grouped into sixteen cabins, campers took part in world-class facilitations, worked through tough (but fun!) team-building exercises, and ran the camp themselves as members of 12 various committees. They learned about themselves as well as their potential positive impact on their communities. The students attending were absolutely an outstanding powerful group of young leaders poised to change the world for the best while making a difference back in their communities.
Following Rotary tradition, the alumni association has the honor of selecting recipients for several scholarships. In the closing ceremonies of Camp RYLA 2026, one thousand dollars scholarships were awarded to nine total recipients: five college students, and four alumni/rotary volunteers. Funding for these scholarships comes from alumni fundraising as well as contributions to the RYLA Foundation.
Students are already making their rounds, coming back to the clubs who sponsored them, to give a camp recap and express their gratitude for the opportunity to attend. Don't have your students scheduled yet? Get in contact with them soon, so you can enjoy their excitement!