Every June, YMCA Camp Colman becomes a hub of inspiration as Rotarians, volunteers, and approximately 100 teenagers gather for the annual Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) hosted by Districts 5030 and 5020. This four-day, immersive program – RYLA Northwest – provides an intensive leadership experience designed to develop essential leadership skills and forge lasting connections among youth from both districts.
Now in its 55th year, RYLA Northwest has empowered over 5,700 students through a unique blend of guest speakers, meaningful discussions, and both mental and physical challenges. Rooted in a “challenge-by-choice” curriculum and small-group learning model, the program emphasizes experiential learning – giving participants the opportunity to grow, lead, and discover their potential in real-time alongside their peers.
At the heart of RYLA Northwest is the principle of servant leadership. Nowhere is this more evident than in the dedication of our volunteer staff, many of whom are former RYLA participants themselves. These alumni return year after year to give back to the very program that once shaped their own journeys. Their commitment is a powerful testament to the long-term impact of investing in youth leadership.
Throughout the year, the RYLA Northwest leadership team works tirelessly to build a program that is relevant, meaningful, and aligned with current events and the evolving needs of students. Their selfless efforts reflect the Rotary value of “Service Above Self” and underscore the importance of building a legacy through mentorship and community investment.
Rotary programs like RYLA, Rotary Youth Exchange, and Interact do more than educate and inspire young people – they serve as a bridge between generations. They encourage Rotarians to reflect on the mentors and role models who shaped their own lives, and to continue that tradition by sharing their knowledge, passion, and skills with the leaders of tomorrow.
By supporting programs like RYLA Northwest, Rotarians ensure their commitment to service lives on – not just in the present, but for generations to come.
