District 7280 of Rotary International, of which Butler County is a part, sponsors two programs for youth involved in community service and leadership.

These programs are Rotary Youth Leadership Awards and Rotary Outstanding Vocational Awards.

RYLA was started in 1959 in Australia as a result of Princess Alexandra, a cousin to Queen Elizabeth II who was in her early 20s.

She attended a Rotary-planned event for the 100th anniversary of Queensland and the Rotary planned events for people of her age group. More than 300 men and women between 17 and 24 attended.

RYLA was created as a way to continue the success of the first gathering.

RYLA takes place every year and is attended by those ages 14 through 30. More than 521 districts worldwide participate by holding RYLA in their district.

Youth are chosen by Rotary clubs based on leadership and potential to lead. The goal of the program is to train youth in leadership and encourage them to participate in community service.

ROVA is a program unique to District 7280. It was started as a way to recognize youth in a vocational program.

These youth are not normally recognized, and are training in skills that will ultimately help the community.

The first program was held March 14 to 15, 2004, in Sandy Lake. There were 83 youth from vocational schools that attended. Participants in ROVA are trained in leadership and encouraged in community service.

For more information about RYLA, visit www.rotary.org/programs/ryla/information/about.htm, or contact your local Rotary club. For more information about ROVA, visit www.district7280.org/rova.htm, or contact your local Rotary club.