The Rotary Club of Chilton County this year will help four local students improve their leadership skills.

The club will provide four full scholarships and transportation to the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program at Camp ASCCA on Lake Martin from March 27-30.

The club has provided two scholarships in the past but this year decided to double its participation.

“Our club has a strong history of RYLA participation,” said Gordon Swenson, president of the local Rotary Club. “Attendees are always grateful for the opportunity to hone their leadership skills as well as network with other high-potential individuals, and I’m sure this year’s RYLA recipients will have the same experience.”

RYLA will take place during Spring Break for Chilton County Schools. Students unable to commit to attending all activities should not apply.

Applications for RYLA can be found at the club’s website.

Applications must be received by March 1 to be considered.

The program is open to all high school juniors and seniors, no matter their plans for after graduation.

Camp participants, which will come from across a Rotary district that stretches from the Gulf Coast north to Chilton County, go through team-building exercises as well as hear from speakers on the topic of leadership.

RYLA aims to:

•Demonstrate Rotary’s respect and concern for youth.

•Provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders.

•Encourage leadership of youth by youth.

•Recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.

Every RYLA program covers the following core topics:

•Fundamentals of leadership.

•Ethics of positive leadership.

•Importance of communication skills in effective leadership.

•Problem-solving and conflict management.

•Rotary’s purpose and service to the community.

•Building self-confidence and self-esteem.

•Elements of community and global citizenship.

Camp ASCCA is a 230-acre facility located near Dadeville.