White Rock Rotary sends kids to camp

By Harriet P. Gross

Every year, Rotary Clubs from our part of Texas sponsor high school students’ attendance at RYLA, a special week-long camping experience. This year, White Rock Rotary is making it possible for three students to attend, one each from Bryan Adams, Lake Highlands and Conrad High Schools.

RYLA stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. Participating students, all selected through an interview process after being recommended by their schools and making application, will spend July 28 through August 2 at Camp Hoblitzelle in Midlothian for an intense program of learning new skills while, of course, also having fun. There is no charge to White Rock’s students for attendance, and Club members themselves provide their transportation to and from the camp.

All RYLA attendees are rising seniors in their own high schools who already display leadership potential. At camp, they gain practical experience through team-building activities, preparing them to return to their own schools for a final year as confident leaders in student councils, a variety of clubs, sports and other activities.  

After White Rock’s campers have returned, the Club will host them as luncheon meeting guests. There, as presenters of the day’s program, they will share their new learning and insights on group cooperation, and tell how they plan to apply these skills in their final high school year, and beyond. Their names and pictures will be publicly released after that time. Those interested in attending this meeting, or learning more about Rotary and potential membership by attending any regular meeting, will be welcomed as guests.   

White Rock Rotary is a club that has held weekly meetings continuously since its founding in 1960. As a part of Rotary International, it participates in such world-wide efforts as the current drive to end polio forever. Locally, it takes part in many community service projects including White Rock Lake cleanup, and provides assistance to local shelters and refugees. Its membership includes men and women of diverse ages and backgrounds.

Club meetings are held every Friday from noon to 1 p.m. for lunch and a speaker or program that provides new information and insights to all. Location is JJ’s Café, just off NW Highway at Ferndale. For more information, call 214-340-5500.