The impetus for this initiative exists for a variety of reason but none more pressing than the inevitable withdrawal of the Camp’s current leaders led by Mark Healy and Dana Mackison. Along with many others, Healy and Mackison have served as the principal developers of Camp RYLA in District 5810 which has been emulated by other domestic programs and the International RYLA program administered during the annual Rotary International Convention. The work of these men and others who support this program has been steadfast yet their continued service cannot be expected to continue indefinitely.With the completion of the first Camp RYLA for District 5810 in 1991, the reality of a Camp RYLA alumni was also conceived. While only a few campers from the inaugural year are still actively involved with Camp RYLA District 5810, the collection of that first group of young leaders set the trend for what has become an impressive track record of young people. Many of those who attended Camp RYLA District 5810 have gone on to become leaders in their schools, communities, professional fields and within Rotary International. The collective skills and talents of this group is an unharnessed resource that both Camp RYLA District 5810 and the network of alumni have yet to effectively tap. This group has the ability to further the aims of the Camp RYLA to new heights and create opportunities yet undiscovered for those have and will be involved with Camp RYLA.
It is because of the impending departure of the current leadership and the available talent and skills of the alumni that I propose that we fortify and formalize the structure of the RYLA Alumni group.
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