Youth & Education

Service Above Self (SAS) Scholarship

Irvine Rotary sponsors an annual essay contest for IUSD high school students. Essays propose a service project in the Irvine community. We participate with volunteer support and financial resources to make the winning projects happen.

Download Application Materials (Word) Support the Scholarship Program

The 2026 cycle ran from January 15 to April 15, 2026. Dates for the next cycle will be posted here. Questions: info@irvinerotary.org

How much and what for

Five scholarship winners will receive up to $1,000, based upon available funding. The money must be used for educational purposes (college degree program or technical certification).

Program funds are split between contest winners at local Irvine high schools.

Project criteria

The project must be an original one created by the student.

It must fit within at least one Area of Focus.

It must be performed within Orange County and have activities in which Irvine Rotary members can participate.

It is implemented in the following academic year.

The challenge

Our community faces challenges such as inflation, wildfires, layoffs and housing scarcity. Among the impacts are food insecurity, homelessness, mental health challenges, bullying and public safety concerns.

Help us find a solution with consideration of Rotary's Seven Areas of Focus:

Peace building
Disease prevention
Clean water and sanitation
Maternal and child health
Education and literacy
Economic development
Environmental protection

How to apply

1
Identify a Project
An impactful hands-on project you can plan and coordinate, which our members can execute locally, with benefits for Irvine and Orange County.
2
Parental Consent
If you are under 18 you need parental consent. The form is in the application materials.
3
Share & Plan
Seek input and advice, consider resources, time, budget and practicality, and have some fun.
4
Submit Application
Email your completed application to info@irvinerotary.org.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA)

RYLA is a leadership development program for young people who want to learn new skills, build their confidence, and have fun. Every spring Irvine Rotary sends 8-10 IUSD high school juniors to a weekend-long youth leadership camp.

RYLA 2025

Day 1
Breaking the barriers
Day 2
Ropes course, learning teamwork
Day 3
The bonds are made

"If RYLA was the only thing our Rotary district ever did, it would still be worth it to be a Rotarian."
Bret Gerdes, Irvine Rotarian and Past District Governor