Camp RYLA 5170 was first held in June 1984 at Camp Campbell, Camp of the Redwoods, a YMCA Camp in the Santa Cruz mountains. A group of Rotarians, which included Dave Ditto, Dick Hennaing, Rick King, Jerry Pettibone, Bud Meddalena (“Uncle Bud”) and John Fisher were inspired to create Camp RYLA after visiting a similar Rotary youth camp program in Fresno—Camp Royal 5220.

After two years of planning and recruiting experienced counselors from other Rotary camp programs through the country, the first Camp RYLA 5170 showcased a selection of speakers that included a two-time Olympic Boxing Coach, the President of Fleet Feet Sports, and a Dale Carnegie instructor. It also included scheduled activities such as a Thursday BBQ dinner, sports activities, newspaper and yearbook publications, speech and debate contests, group photos, and more.

As reported in the first newsletter, “Moods upon arrival were apprehensive as might be expected, but once everyone was settled into cabins and introduced to counselors and fellow campers, friendships quickly began to develop and conversations turned to the usual topics of mutual friends, school [and] cars…“. Some of the most fun at camp from competition in athletics, debate, speeches, and skits around the campfire. The campers of 1984 were highly skilled, innovated and talented—a description that can be used for every year of campers since.

From the first camp of 76 students to the present-day camp of 200+ students, Camp RYLA 5170 has continued to build upon the foundation created 1984. What began as a selection of corporate and motivational speakers has developed into an eight-part leadership curriculum overseen by Dr. Ed Curramang, Phd in Education and taught by alumni of Camp RYLA 5170 who have used the skills they learned as campers to achieve incredible personal and professional success as adults. The counselors are also accomplished and talented RYLA 5170 alumni who are dedicated to creating a fun, meaningful, and safe space for campers to grow into themselves and develop their leadership skills.

The activities that were first offered to campers such as speech and debate, sports activities, and skits around the campfire continue today, in addition to exciting new offerings that reflect the growth in society and technology. Activities today include RYLA Studios (campers use their photography/videography, digital editing, and technology skills), Entertainment (campers host a “Tuesday Night Live” show around the campfire), Band & Choir (campers perform a summer concert using their musical and stage directing talents), and more! These offers are structured as opportunities for campers to learn new skills and lead the entire camp in these activities.