Rotary Youth conference has concluded.
This year student participation increased to 43 students (42 actually got to complete the entire program thanks to the flu stealing one form us).
Students spent time interacting with Rotarians and other community leaders learning about communications, leadership, problem solving, and team building. In addition to lectures and activities lead by an incredible line up of volunteer presenters, they spent time doing hands on service projects including preparing hundreds of doodle books that will be delivered to children in Guadalajara, Mexico. They also packed over 10,000 nutritious meals in support of Rise Against Hunger.
There was plenty of time for fun and relaxation as well. The camp staff at Twin Lakes did a great job leading them through several problem solving and team building games and activities.
Across the day and at night, they had more than enough free time to continue building friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime. From midnight karaoke to impromptu games of Mafia, canoeing on the lake, hiking the trails, climbing the ever-popular fire tower, or just sitting around enjoying conversations .
The conference concluded with a great student-led discussion on starting and sustaining Interacts clubs and developing service projects. Rotary clubs should be prepared for these students to come and visit and share their RYLA experience and to support their efforts.
The 2019 conference may be over but their journey together as friends has only begun. Word has it, that THEY are already working together trying to coordinate a time for an reunion excursion together this summer.
