Anatomy of a Reunion
The Macier Family at Snow Mountain Ranch
The YMCA of the Rockies is known nation-wide for being the top place for families to have reunions. Sure, we’re proud that our variety of programs, affordable lodging and great locations serve families so well. But we are most proud that families tell us time after time that their reunions brought them closer than ever. It’s a big part of our Mission here at the Y.
Take, for example, the Macier family who had their reunion at Snow Mountain Ranch the summer of 2006. It was the first reunion the family had in more than 30 years, and many people had never even met before.Rhonda Maguire, the reunion planner, tells of a story we have heard before. The family attended a funeral and, as funerals go, family members hugged and said they should stop meeting like this. Rhonda mentioned the idea of a Colorado reunion to a cousin, and by the time the funeral was over, the cousin had taken a poll and found they would have enough family to have a real reunion.
Photo Credit: Photos by Dill
Rhonda knew about the YMCA of the Rockies from other families, and she immediately got planning.The 3-day Macier reunion proved to be an amazing time of reconnection and recreation. Fifty-two family members attended and represented four generations of Maciers. Most of them complained that the reunion was too short, so Rhonda reserved four nights for their 2008 reunion. Family came from 12 states. Rhonda’s daughter says it best when she describes what a cool family she comes from.
After the reunion, family members bragged to others about what a great time they had, and those who did not attend were envious. The bragging worked: the next reunion is still more than a year away and already 110 family members have signed up!
Rhonda says their family went from distant and scattered to close. “Close seems like such a small word, but it in this case it’s a huge word. I just can’t find the words to express how wonderfully overwhelming the experience was,” she says.
Rhonda, her sister and three female cousins started the “Diamond Necklace Club” after the reunion. This is to be the planning group for years to come.
Begin planning your reunion today by calling 800-777-9622!