R Y L A 5 8 1 0 F O U N D A T I O N · E S T . 1 9 9 1
Celebrating a Legacy.
Building the Future.
35th Anniversary Celebration · November 6 & 7, 2026 · McKinney & Plano, Texas
Hosted by the RYLA 5810 Alumni Association
35 Years of Growing Leaders Who Grow Leaders
For 35 years, RYLA 5810 has been more than a leadership camp. It has been a launchpad, a turning point where thousands of North Texas teenagers discovered their voices, confronted their fears, built lifelong friendships, and realized they could lead not by title, but by example.
Founded in 1991 under Rotary International District 5810, Camp RYLA was built on a bold vision: equip the next generation with the confidence, character, and compassion to make a real difference. What began as a single week each summer has grown into a comprehensive movement funded by Rotary International, powered by volunteers, shaped by alumni, and fueled by the endless potential of youth.
RYLArians have gone on to become educators, physicians, entrepreneurs, nonprofit directors, Rotarians, and community leaders. Many have returned as counselors and staff, creating a mentorship pipeline that grows stronger every year. Programs like Day 7, Winter Summit, RYLA U, and RYLA Connect continue to support alumni well beyond camp and into their careers.
This November, we’re gathering to honor everything this program has built and to invest boldly in what comes next.
Our Impact, By the Numbers
RYLA 5810 is the global gold standard. RYLA International was designed using our model as its template. Programs across multiple states and as far away as Australia have been built on what we’ve created here in North Texas.
“Strong leaders are made, not born. Leadership principles are learned, not inherited.”
Join Us for the Celebration
We’re marking 35 years with two distinct events—each with its own purpose, both rooted in the same mission. Attend one or both. Either way, you’re part of the story.
F R I D A Y, N O V E M B E R 6 , 2 0 2 6
35th Anniversary Inaugural Fundraising Gala
McKinney Cotton Mill · 6:00 PM · McKinney, Texas · Cocktail or Business Attire
This milestone evening brings together alumni, Rotarians, business leaders, and friends of RYLA for a night dedicated to honoring our legacy and securing RYLA’s future. Expect dinner, compelling stories of impact, recognition of our supporters, and meaningful opportunities to invest in what comes next.
The evening will include:
- Recognition of the Rotary clubs, sponsors, and donors who made 35 years possible.
- Inspiring alumni impact stories from across the decades.
- Live auction benefiting RYLA scholarships and programming
- Sponsorship and personal gift opportunities
- A forward-looking vision for the next 35 years of RYLA
Ticket purchases, table sponsorships, and additional gifts go directly toward scholarships, program enhancements, and expanded access—ensuring every deserving student across District 5810 can experience RYLA, regardless of financial means.
S A T U R D A Y, N O V E M B E R 7 , 2 0 2 6
RYLA Family Reunion
Legacy Hall High Bar (Private 3rd Floor) · 6:00 – 10:00 PM · Plano, Texas · Casual
Whether you attended camp in 1992 or 2025, served on staff, volunteered, sponsored a camper, or simply love RYLA—Saturday night is your reunion. Come ready to reconnect, share stories, and reflect on what this community has meant to you. Bring your family. Your $50 ticket includes:
The evening will include:
- Heavy appetizers and light bites throughout the evening
- Open bar until the tab maximum, followed by a cash bar
- Exclusive access to the private third-floor High Bar venue
- An evening with every generation of the RYLA family
- A brief 7:30 PM anniversary program celebrating 35 years of RYLA
No formal agenda. No dress code. Just the RYLA family, together again.
Support the Future of RYLA
The RYLA 5810 Foundation is the 501(c)(3) charitable organization that manages RYLA leadership programs in Rotary International District 5810. Sponsorship opportunities for the Gala & Fundraiser are available. From presenting sponsor packages to table investments, there are meaningful ways for businesses and organizations to align with 35 years of proven leadership impact. Your investment, at any level, directly funds:
Gala sponsorship packages are also available for businesses and organizations seeking meaningful community partnership. Contact us to learn more.
What RYLA Alumni Are Saying
“I started camp shy, not loving myself. I endedthe week feeling fully happy to be myself andbecame part of this fantastic new family.”
— 2023 Camper
“Camp RYLA was one of the greatest weeks ofmy life. Thank y’all so much—you are changinglives.”
— Recent Graduate
“This camp gave me my confidence back, and it truly made me believe in the success behind a positive mindset and can-do attitude.”
— 2024 Camper
“I left feeling renewed, hopeful, and optimistic—and more importantly, empowered to make adifference in any way, shape, or form.”
— 2024 Camper
Ready to Invest in the Next 35 Years?
Every ticket purchased, every gift made, and every story shared helps RYLA 5810 continue developing the leaders North Texas needs. Join us this November—or support the Foundation today.
Stay Connected – Update Your Information
As part of our 35th Anniversary, we’re rebuilding our database of 7,000+ RYLA alumni and communitymembers. Take a moment to update your contact details—and share the link with co-campers, fellowcounselors, and alumni friends so we can keep our community connected for the next 35 years.
Here’s to 35 years of RYLA 5810 and the next 35 to come.
This anniversary belongs to everyone who has been part of the journey – our alumni, volunteers, Rotarians, families, sponsors, and friends. Thank you for believing in youth leadership. Thank you for being part of the RYLA community,
RYLA 5810 Foundation · 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization · Growing Leaders Who Grow Leaders Since 1991
ryla5810.org · Questions? Contact us here
