Ymca Blue Ridge Assembly

Ymca Blue Ridge prepares the next generation of leaders through tailored leadership programming that keeps them engaged and actively learning through understanding and application. They may draw on the skills learned at Ymca Blue Ridge - teamwork, interpersonal communication, critical thinking and social awareness - in any context throughout life, and will find these skills essential to building a solid foundation of good character and self-concept. Our teaching model creates confident kids today that will become contributing, engaged adults tomorrow. At Ymca Blue Ridge, we are surrounded by a uniquely beautiful natural landscape which informs and inspires our mission. We are able to utilize the world immediately around us as a platform for adventure, self- discovery, and hands-on learning. Whether traversing a challenge course, hiking in the woods, exploring a creek ecosystem, or conquering an outdoor teambuilding exercise, our program participants are encouraged to face new challenges in a positive, energizing environment. They are able to learn about themselves and their peers, navigate their strengths and weaknesses; and develop confidence and trust in themselves and others. Ymca Blue Ridge staff are equipped and proud to see every interaction with a young person as an opportunity for learning, development, mentorship and life-long impact. The belief that today's youth are tomorrow's leaders is at the core of everything we do, and as such we are committed and aware of our role in their formative years.

Ymca Blue Ridge's neighbors span the southeast united states. We have the unique opportunity to impact more than 30,000 lives per year: they are our community. To them, we offer a safe place where healthy discussion and both mutual and dissenting viewpoints can be shared and addressed. At Ymca Blue Ridge, we live out our values of hospitality and inclusion. To ensure that all are able to experience what we offer each year, we rely on generous donations to our annual campaign. We value our doors being open to everyone, regardless of financial standing. Our service-learning program is another unique Ymca Blue Ridge initiative which inspires a spirit of service in young adults by engaging them in hands-on service projects in the community. We partner with local organizations and equip young people with the skills and tools necessary to serve those in western north carolina, instilling the value of service leadership within them so they can continue to serve in their communities back home. Our cause is to provide a safe environment for people to connect, learn, grow and thrive. We believe that the value of our work is most noble, honorable and impactful if we can measure it by how it improves the lives of others. This belief informs the way we serve our guests, teach youth, cultivate relationships and inspire life-long learning in all.

Ymca Blue Ridge supports healthy living by offering opportunities for guests to refresh and renew in spirit, mind and body. We are a sanctuary: a place where the refuge of nature meets the reality of experiences that many may not otherwise have access to or the ability to enjoy. Visitors of all ages find Ymca Blue Ridge a place of rest from the stress and pressure of everyday life. Our campus's beauty provides inspiration for all to reflect on the wonder of creation and their place within it, helping us authentically foster spiritual growth for all. Our facilities, programming and tailored staff-led activities also provide intellectual growth for all ages. Intentional spaces where community, fellowship and discussion may be fostered are readily available, and indoor activities including our heritage arts studio invite guests to explore their creativity. Our adventure, challenge, ropes, and other outdoor courses promote personal determination, teamwork, and problem solving. The impact, influence and importance of a healthy lifestyle are a part of the daily operations at Ymca Blue Ridge, from well-balanced meal options to an abundance of recreational opportunities. The natural environment, well-maintained hiking trails, and outdoor activities like disc golf, volleyball and more encourage groups and families to get outside and engage with the natural world and with each other, infusing physical play, curiosity and learning.

To enable staff and guests, especially youth, to achieve their full potential in spirit, mind and body. Ymca Blue Ridge Assembly seeks to fulfill this purpose by: 1) serving Ymca and other non-profit organizations, training events and conferences of a religious, educational or community service nature. 2) serving staff by providing leadership training in a work experience with a christian atmosphere. 3) providing programs which develop self-esteem and self confidence, build lasting relationships, encourage understanding of cultural and individual differences and increase civic engagement. 4) services are offered at affordable fees with financial assistance available for those who cannot afford the full fee. The organization has all volunteer members on the board of directors. Other volunteer roles include assisting in the gift shop, craft room, maintenance department, and/or dining room. Ymca Blue Ridge Assembly strengthens the community by: - giving teens the opportunity to reach their maximum self-potential through leadership development. - teaching service-based leadership and offering hands-on learning experiences to teens and church groups. - providing unique opportunities for children, teens, families, churches, businesses and other groups to develop self-worth, communication and team- building through experiential education programs. - offering family programs that improve communication and strengthen the intergenerational bonds. - collaborate with human service organizations in an effort to enhance their training, retreat and leadership development needs. - developing staff initiative and job skills through internships, training programs and supervised work experiences. - creating new partnerships with local non-profits through the participation of service-minded groups. - developing global perspectives through the intercultural mix of our collegiate staff. - promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages though outdoor and indoor sports. - encouraging engagement opportunities with the local community through outdoor activities and heritage arts.