– November 2024 –

A Message from

Interim Executive Director – Kerry Keys

Kerry gives us an update on our very successful Youth CONferences and more!

Let's All Gather in Gratitude!

November 27 – December 1

Thanksgiving has always been a time to gather with friends and family to reflect on our gratitude for all the world has provided us throughout the year. However, this Thanksgiving will be even more poignant here at The Mountain as we continue to support those in this region who were so devastated by Hurricane Helene and encourage all of you who can to support these efforts.

We are in the midst of finalizing plans and creating fun and engaging programs for all ages to enjoy this special weekend and we are excited to share the entire schedule very soon. Our Grateful Gathering is a great time of year to visit The Mountain to connect with old friends, make new friends, enjoy the stunning beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and celebrate our gratitude. It's also a great way to stay out of the kitchen Thanksgiving weekend and enjoy enjoy amazing fellowship, meals, workshops, and entertainment!

Now is the time to book your Grateful Gathering weekend and celebrate the gratitude in our lives!

Click for more information

ANNOUNCING:

$50K Match for Annual Fund to Support Mountain Programming starting November 1st

What a great opportunity we have to invest in The Mountain! 

• A couple of generous donors have offered to match $50,000 if the rest of us contribute at least that much for the annual fund before the end of the year. Such a generous deal!

• The Mountain continues to thrive and create important programming for our visitors throughout the year, thanks to generous gifts from people just like you.

• During this season of giving, please consider investing in The Mountain and encourage others who share Mountain values to invest in the work we do.

• So far we have already received $5,820.00 towards the match meaning there is only $44,180.00 to go in reaching our goal!

• Your contribution will help us continue our important mission of enriching lives, fostering an appreciation of the natural world, honoring the interconnectedness of all things, and inspiring people to build inclusive, meaningful, sustainable communities throughout their lives.

We are very grateful for all support for The Mountain!

There are many ways to contribute to The Mountain, a (501c3) organization, so your kind gift is tax deductible. 

Check out all of the options:

• Cash Contributions Online or Onsite– Check, PayPal, Credit Card, and Cash

• Stock Transfer

• Donor Advised Fund

• Retirement Accounts -- Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) or Qualified Charitable

Distribution (QCD), or IRA accounts (talk with your accountant to learn about the possibility of up to $100,000 which may be donated without tax exposure)

• Please reach out to us if you have other ideas for giving (development@themountainrlc.org)

Click to Learn More About Giving

High School Youth CONference

Is Ready to Rock!

Our Fall YouthCONs have been a big hit! So far, we've welcomed amazing groups of UU youth to our Elementary and Intermediate CONs for weekends full of activities including workshops, outdoor activities, a dance, and so much more.

Up next is Fall High School CON! We are looking forward to welcoming our UU teens from across the Southeast for a fun weekend full of connections, reflections, and spiritual growth. All youth stay in our cozy cabins and join together in our Dining Hall for delicious meals suited to each individual's dietary needs. CONs are planned by youth for youth, providing opportunities for youth leadership and empowerment.

Click to learn more and register!

High School CON - December 13-15

Experience a Magical Fall

at The Mountain

The Mountain truly thrives when we are welcoming guests. From preparing cozy cabins, to creating wonderful meals, and tending to our beautiful outdoor spaces and newly renovated common spaces – our team pays attention to every detail in order to maintain the unique Mountain experience our guests have come to expect.

We invite you to The Mountain for your own personal retreat to be nurtured by this special place. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing season as it unfolds below you across Blue Valley.

Fall is also a great time to bring the family and friends along for an incredible fall camping experience. Hike the many trails in the area, explore the waterfalls, and experience the dazzling fall colors all around.

Click to Check Out All the Local Highlands Area Happenings

Click to Learn More About Personal Retreats and Group Visits

In Memoriam 2024

As The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center celebrates our 45th year, we continue experiencing the loss of members of this special community. We would like to acknowledge the passing of community members and recognize their involvement in our Mountain community.

If you know anyone in our community who has passed away the past few years, please send their name and information about their involvement in The Mountain and how it mattered in their life. We would like to share this in the December Mountain Matters, so please send this information by the end of November.

Click to send 2024 Memoriams

Become a Part Our Amazing Team!

Upcoming Events and Programs

Click on events to learn more!

Sr. High Youth CON - December 13-15

Grateful Gathering - November 27 - December 1

The Heart Sutra, A Special Mountain Meditation Retreat - December 6-8

Stay tuned for exciting news about Music Week coming up in Spring of 2025!

If you're planning a visit to The Mountain please note that Hurricane Helene washed out a section of Hwy 106 (Dillard Road) about a mile southwest of The Mountain. If you normally take this road to get here, please be aware of the alternate routes required by the road closure.