Thursday, February 19, 2009
Renew yourself, your commitment to labor activism at Black Lake
The slumping economy and what it's doing to our coworkers, friends, neighbors and communities is depressing. Let's face it: We all could use a little renewal of spirit and purpose right now.
There's no better program than the Family Scholarship Program (211 KB) at the Walter and May Reuther UAW Family Education Center in Onaway, Mich., to accomplish this.
And, best of all, it's free.
This summer bring your family along for a weeklong experience that combines education with relaxation at a unique facility nestled among the natural wonders of Northern Michigan.
| Photo: Anne Drake, UAW 898 Retiree |
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| Participants in the UAW Family Scholarship Program become more active, engaged union activists, all while enjoying the beauty of Northern Michigan. |
Since the center opened in 1970, thousands of UAW families have participated in the program. It works like this:
During the day, parents participate in workshops about issues affecting working families and what we can do about them. Your children go to age-appropriate day camps with creative arts, music, games, athletics and swimming. The age groupings are 3-7 and 8-11.
Youngsters ages 12-15 get a small taste of what it's like to be an active, involved citizen with specially designed workshops, plus activities such as golf, swimming and gym games. And teenagers ages 16-18 participate in a program to prepare them for the working world.
Other afternoon and evening activities include swimming at our indoor pool, a walk on the Black Lake beach, and many other fun and relaxing activities. Golfers can play the adjacent, award-winning Black Lake Golf Club.
Your union pays for all lodging, food and program costs. Participants may choose to pay for other things such as group photographs, gift shop items, golf or activities in nearby communities.
To be eligible for a family scholarship, you must be a UAW member in good standing for at least a year and never have attended the scholarship program.
This summer's three sessions are July 5-10, July 12-17 and July 19-24 (which also offers a session in Spanish.)