What is the Blue Ridge Institute?

"Peopleizing" Services a la Blue Ridge
by Harold J. Weekley, 1914-98

Introduction

(NOTE: The following pages were accurate through Harold Weekley's time with BRI and beyond, and offer a unique glimpse into Blue Ridge history, although some facts are now outdated. Updated content coming soon!)

No doubt the Blue Ridge Institute for Southern Community Service Executives (hereafter usually referred to as the "Institute" or "Blue Ridge") has a variety of connotations. To some it means a place to bring the family once a year; to others it provides a fine place to use the rocking chair while observing a magnificent view of the mountains. Some people enjoy long mountain hikes while others prefer to sit on the porch of Lee Abbott or Asheville Halls or the Lobby of the Blue Ridge Center to renew old acquaintances and make new ones. The Cottages have also been used by several family groups as we watched the children grow up-as true "Blue Ridgers". The Conference Center has been a fine addition to the facilities utilized by the group. Regardless of whether they are new or old accommodations for the "Blue Ridgers," we still feel like "Kissin' Cousins".

We have fun, but also gain much from the more serious aspects of Blue Ridge. Harmonizing to the music of Salvation Army musicians has given us spiritual satisfactions which will long be remembered. By living in this campus-setting for a week each year, meeting and talking with others in similar and related fields, we learn how to be good agency-neighbors, which has a direct benefit in our communities and organizations. As the late Fred Huffman (Chairman in 1946 and 1947 often said, "Peopleizing Services" is very important!"

Continue to "Values"