Participant Guidelines

The RYS Approach | Organization and Activities | Health and Wellbeing
Finances | Transportation | In Summary | RYS NORMS

We recommend printing the following pages for reference.
You may download a Word Document version here.

Prior to your acceptance to an RYS Project you will be required to sign a commitment to follow these norms.  The Norms will also be reviewed during the project orientation.

Alcohol and Illegal Drugs
Consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs is not permitted during the project. If you partake in these substances in your current lifestyle, we ask that you respect this policy of abstinence during the full extent of the program.

Exclusive Relationships
One of the central purposes of RYS is for each participant to experience the wondrous diversity of our human family. Maintaining an exclusive relationship with one person during an RYS project is antithetical to the spirit of the program and is thus unacceptable.

RYS aims to create a wholesome spirit. Exclusive personal relationships are not conducive to creating a healthy public atmosphere. Participants are therefore required to refrain from sexual relations during the program in order to devote all energies to living for the sake of the community we are serving. Promiscuous behavior will result in dismissal. If you disagree with this sexual/moral standard or believe that you cannot abide by this policy for the term of a project, it is better that you not attend.

Smoking
Smoking is discouraged, and prohibited at meals, meetings, in vehicles and sleeping areas. It is objectionable to others, as well as injurious to their health. If you must smoke, please be sensitive to those around you.

Noice and Loud Music
Living in close quarters requires additional sensitivity. Please allow for the needs and desires of others to rest, reflect and meditate, by keeping a quiet atmosphere in group settings, especially in public areas. Do not play loud music in a sleeping area.

Illegal Drugs and other illegal activities
Those who violate local laws or run afoul of local authorities for carrying illegal substances or committing crimes may be subject to penalties or even imprisonment. Anyone in this situation will have to take full responsibility for his/her action. Anyone found carrying or using illegal drugs jeopardizes the stature of the whole Religious Youth Service group and will be subject to dismissal.