RYLA Update

RYLA Camp 2024 promises an exhilarating experience! Our District is enthusiastically sending 13 students to participate in this transformative event. Congratulations to the
clubs who have students participation!  
  • Watertown: Under the guidance of RYLA Rep Lisa Carrico, a spirited group of 5 students is ready to embark on this adventure.
  • Luverne: RYLA Rep Karen Willers leads a dynamic duo of 2 students, eager to learn, grow, and connect.
  • Sioux Falls D/T: Alissa Matt, our dedicated RYLA Rep, is accompanying a single student who’s poised for an unforgettable journey.
  • Pierre/Ft. Pierre: Larry Lyngstad, the driving force behind RYLA in our district, is mentoring 2 students, fueling their passion for leadership.
  • Spearfish: Sheri Perry and Kirk Easton, our dynamic RYLA Reps, are guiding a lone student, ready to embrace challenges and forge lasting connections. 🌟🚀

Get ready for an inspiring week of leadership, camaraderie, and personal growth! 

 In the 2023-24 Rotary year, our District set an ambitious goal: to double the number of applicants compared to the previous year. Last year, there were 8 applicants, and 7 students ultimately attended RYLA. This year, we received an impressive 16 initial applications, and all students promptly returned their Student Commitment forms. We successfully met our District goal.

However, as the summer approached, four applicants encountered scheduling conflicts and regretfully couldn’t attend RYLA. Despite the diligent efforts of each Club, which conducted thorough interviews with the students and ensured they completed the Student Commitment forms, these conflicts arose. The affected students hailed from LeMars, Sioux City Iowa, and Pierre/Ft. Pierre.  To learn more about a club's involvement and funding commitments when sponsoring a RYLA student, contact Rene Sorenson at reneinak@gmail.com.

Our “sweet spot” goal, which allows for comprehensive RYLA coverage, is 64 students. Currently, we have 48 enthusiastic students ready to embark on this transformative experience. Let’s make this RYLA unforgettable!