Delivering Holiday Cheer

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Three years ago, we looked at a room filled with more than two dozen lovely centerpieces leftover after our annual holiday dinner-dance, the Commodore's Ball.

 We did not have the space or need to keep the centerpieces at the club through the holiday season.  We thought back to a conversation we had earlier in the week about the members who attended the event for years, but had "aged out" of dancing.  Over the years many had moved to a Continuing Care Retirement Community just 10 minutes from the club.   Though some still actively use the club, others do not get to enjoy it as much as they once did.  So, we decided to share a bit of RYC for them to enjoy at home.  With more than 20 RYC members residing in the same location, it was a very convenient way to ensure the centerpieces would continue to bring holiday cheer to members throughout the season.

It is a wonderful way to honor and remember the members that spent most of their life enjoying and contributing to the Riverside Yacht Club community.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Though we were surprised when we were told we needed to make each delivery the first year, we now look forward to knocking on each of the twenty-some doors at the start of the holiday season.  We include a personalized, hand-written note to each member, and have learned over the years how to organize for the deliveries.

Those who have moved in during the past year are genuinely shocked and eager to show us around their new apartments.  They are all so touched to be remembered at the holidays by the club.  One member, whose mobility had become increasingly challenged over the past two years, insisted on standing up to thank us and welcome us.  Thank you notes to the club arrive throughout the following week.   They are so appreciative to know that they continue to be important to the club that has been a huge part of their life for decades.