ROTARY YOUTH PROGRAM OF ENRICHMENT (RYPEN)

Leadership & Development Programs

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST OPEN

NEXT CAMP

When | 3-5 May 2024
Where | Bornhoffen PCYC, 3510 Nerang-Murwillumbah Rd, Natural Bridge  QLD  4211
Who | Year 8-10 Students or Ages 14-16
Cost | TBC

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR 2024

Whilst our 2023 camp is over for another year, we are accepting expressions of interest for our 2024 camp now!  By registering via the link below you will get first notice of applications opening later this year.  So, what are you waiting for?

EXPRESS INTEREST NOW

OVERVIEW

RYPEN is a residential camp that takes place over 2.5 days. for school students aged between 14-16 (Year 8-10) that focuses on the development of self-concept, relationships, and is designed to develop skills that will assist them in the transition to adulthood.

Participants participate in a range of activities that will challenge them on many different levels.

Read below for more information on the program and how to secure your spot at the next camp.

APPLICATION PROCESS

All applicants will need to be endorsed by a local Rotary Club who may also be able to provide financial sponsorship to attend. 
 
The application process for the 2023 camp is CLOSED.  The instructions below outline the general process for the next camp in 2024.
STEP 1
Rotary Club Support
 
All participants are endorsed by a Rotary Club and these Clubs may also be able to provide support on the cost to attend.
 
You should start by contacting your local Rotary Club (a list of clubs and contacts can be found here) to endorse your application. They will need to provide you with a contact person at the club and their email and phone number to complete Step 2 (usually this is the club's Youth Director).  They may also refer you to another club if they are unable to assist.  If you are having any issues please email us at rypen@rotary9640.org.
 
Secondly, you should agree any financial sponsorship arrangements with the club endorsing your application. You and the club may find it useful to complete a Financial Sponsorship Agreement.  This form does not need to be submitted with your application but is a record for you, your parents  / guardians and the club
STEP 2
Complete Application Form
 
Complete and submit the application form (collects contact and other details of you, your parents / guardians and the Rotary Club sponsoring as well as  details of any medical conditions and dietary requirements, and an insurance declaration).  Please have Medicare and Private Health Insurance details handy before completing the form.  Once submitted, an email approval will be automatically generated for your parent / guardian to approve by clicking the link on the email sent to them.  Your sponsoring club will then be sent details for approval.
 
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
 
IMPORTANT: Your application will not be complete until your parents / guardian have clicked APPROVE on the bottom of the email sent to them from Form Approvals.  The subject line will be Request #XX for your review.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

 
What can I expect?
Fun, friendship, challenges and a bit of the unknown.  Hopefully, you will walk away with new skills and perspectives that you can use to help you in the future.
 
Who can go?
RYPEN is designed for students in Year 8-10 or aged 14-16.   Rotary Clubs may be able to offer financial sponsorship, reducing any barriers on attendance.  If cost is an issue, please feel free to email us to discuss the options available.
 
How is payment made?
Sponsoring Rotary Clubs are invoiced the cost of the camp.  As noted above in the application process details, any co-contribution payable (if applicable) should be negotiated with that club upfront..
 
What should I bring with me to camp?
All confirmed attendees will be emailed a packing list prior to camp.
 
Who runs RYPEN?
Rotarians from our District, along with alumni from past youth programs volunteer their time to run RYPEN each year.  RYPEN is not run for profit but is part of Rotary's commitment to developing future leaders and equipping youth to face the challenges that life provides.
 
What protection policies are in place?
All volunteers involved in running the camp must hold both a valid NSW Working with Children Check and QLD Blue Card. There are minimum of two trained First Aid officers on every camp.  In addition most volunteers will have undertaken Mental Health awareness training.  Rotary also operates under strict Youth Protection Guidelines. 
 
Any further questions?
Feel free to email us at rypen@rotary9640.org.or call the District Program Chair, Tamara Urmston on 0499 029 384.