Groveland Twp.- For those seeking a new retreat destination just off the beaten path, among the placid woods of Oakland County, a new option is soon to open.
A dedication is set for Sept.10, for the David L. Bittker BBYO (B’nai B’rith Youth Organization) Conference Center.
Bittker, a leader of BBYO for many years, died more than a year ago and the building will bear his name.
‘He was very active in the organization and dedicated to youth,? said Weiner.
Located north of Grange Hall Road, between Jossman and Barron roads, the structure is constructed on land donated by the Jewish Federation of Metro Detroit. The 5,500 square-foot, single level building comprised of two separate wings, can house up to 20 youth and three adults.
‘Everyone is very excited about the move to this new place,? said Arnold Weiner, BBYO senior executive regional director. The old conference center had been located in Canada since the 1970s.
‘Since Sept. 11, transportation over the border to the center in Canada was harder and began to get pricey,? said Weiner. ‘It’s safer in America.?
Weiner figured it was time to update the current center in Canada and explained that making the choice to move into Michigan seemed to be the obvious decision to make.
‘With the cost of permits, building supplies, and furnishing, the total cost is about $1.3 million,? estimates Stacey Wolfe, assistant director.
Funding for the new center was made possible due to the BBYO raising money through donations.
Michigan BBYO serves thousands of teens in seventh and eighth grades, as well as high school programs. The center will be a youth retreat center that the BBYO will use for various leadership-training camps, and be open to individual youth groups. The facility will be available for weekend retreats throughout the regular school year.
‘This is going to be a great place for chapters to come and retreat for the weekends,? said Weiner.