Differences are what make us human; they keep our lives and our social interactions interesting and diverse. But it is often difficult to see our personal differences in a positive light, and feeling different from classmates and friends can further distance youths from their peers.
When differences alienate them from their surroundings, it is important for youths to have a stable community they can turn to. The Youth Rally, a summer camp operated by the Youth Rally Committee (YRC) strives to provide a positive support network that highlights independence and individuality as tools youths can use to regain confidence and a sense of belonging.
The YRC is devoted to providing a positive atmosphere of support, learning, and personal growth for youths with bowel and/or bladder dysfunction. Every year the Youth Rally teaches campers that everybody, regardless of any medical or physical differences, matters as a person and has the ability to achieve their goals.
Thanks to generous assistance from support groups and their members, individual and corporate sponsors, and the WOCN, the Youth Rally has been a successful program for over 25 years. The YRC relies on new and continued financial support from groups and individuals in order to properly plan, organize and operate the Youth Rally. Ongoing assistance from its friends and family have allowed the Youth Rally to continue to provide its young campers with a wonderful atmosphere of growth, learning, love, and compassion.
This website offers information and news about the Youth Rally and the YRC. Returning and prospective campers can find information about upcoming and past Rallies. Supporters and sponsors can find more information about the YRC and the numerous opportunities to contribute, donate, and support the Youth Rally.
Youth Rally Committee, Inc. (YRC)
- Non profit organization
- allows tax deductible donations
- The sole purpose is to provide the “Youth Rally” experience to as many kids as possible.
- All donations go directly to the Youth Rally
Board of Directors
| Paul Hastings | President & CEO | San Francisco, CA |
| Linda Aukett | Secretary & Treasurer | Westmont, New Jersey |
| April Gimlen | Vice President | Alameda, CA |
| Liz Hiltabidel | Vice President | Lake Arrowhead, CA |
| Jude Ebbinghaus | Board Member | Groton, Connecticut |
| Susie Gulbransen | Board Member | Oakley, CA |
| Doug Kreitz | Board Member | Palo Alto, CA |
| Bonnie McElroy | Board Member | Hoover, Alabama |
| Zachariah Walker | Board Member | Palisade, Colorado |
Testimonials
Here's what some of our campers and counselors have to say about Youth Rally:
“I just went to my sixth Youth Rally, in San Diego. I have made so many friends, that I can’t even call them just friends anymore. They are my second family. My life is not complete without the Youth Rally”
- Cheryl, Former Camper and Current Counselor from Connecticut
“The Youth Rally was a life-changing experience. It was the first time I ever felt that I was in a totally safe environment.”
- Andrew, Camper Graduate from Pennsylvania
“Every year I attend the Youth Rally. I come back a better person. My Rally campers and counselors teach me love, courage, and challenge me to carry on. They keep me young and I’m eternally grateful for all they do for me. They all are special Angels in my life.”
- Jude, Counselor from Connecticut
“Youth Rally is the place to meet those other kids your parents always told you existed - those who are going through the same things you are. It allows you to form your own support group of friends who understand you and love you for everything you are.”
- Amy, Camper from Alabama
“I discovered my first Youth Rally when I was 11. After my first year, I came home a changed young man. I found out I was not alone.”
- Tony, Former Camper and Current Counselor from Kansas