Discover the spirit of Black Lake
Are you looking for the perfect family getaway where you can also renew your spirits as a union member?
This summer introduce your family to the Walter and May Reuther UAW Family Education Center – a unique facility nestled among the natural wonders of Onaway, Mich., with woods, water and deer so friendly they don't run away at the first hint of a human.
Since the center opened in 1970, thousands of UAW families have participated in the Family Scholarship Program for a weeklong experience that combines education with relaxation. Here’s how it works:
During the day, parents participate in workshops with lively discussions and interactive exercises while 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 will enjoy union involvement workshops, golf, swimming and gym games. And teens ages 16-18 are offered a program to prepare them for the working world.
Other afternoon and evening activities include laps at the indoor pool, a walk on the Black Lake beach, various sports and Karaoke Night. In addition, golfers can play the award-winning Black Lake Golf Club.
The UAW 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.
For UAW Local 1050 member Al Ford, who participated in last summer’s program with his 11-year-old daughter and 12-year-old twins, “The goal was accomplished.”
“When we attended, my kids were so enthusiastic about labor unions, and that’s something they don’t teach in the regular school system,” said Ford of Garfield Heights, Ohio, who has 10 years as a skilled-trades electrician with Alcoa. “In fact, when they went shopping with their mother, they even questioned buying Nike products.”
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 6-11, July 13-18 and July 20-25 (which also offers a session in Spanish.)
