Bordering Rocky Mountain National park and minutes away from the picturesque mountain town Estes Park, YMCA of the Rockies is an all-inclusive, rustic resort focused on building community and connecting with nature. Dedicated to supporting diversity and seeking innovative seasonal staffing solutions, YMCA of the Rockies annually hosts BridgeUSA Summer Work and Travel, Camp Counselor, Intern, and Trainee exchange visitors.

YMCA of the Rockies invited LifeTRAVELED, along with other visa sponsor representatives and the Department of State, to visit YMCA of the Rockies to see their exchange visitor program first-hand and attend their bi-annual international dinner. Following an evening of ice breakers and trivia, the YMCA of the Rockies team led a detailed program to showcase their exchange visitor program. The day began with an informational presentation about the YMCA and program statistics highlighting their dedication to diversity in their exchange visitors. Amanda Moulden, International Programs Director, has continuously grown the numbers of countries represented each year, with her highest achievements at 30+ countries in one summer! We were joined by current exchange visitors who shared their exchange visitor story, citing how they have developed their professional skills, experienced personal growth, made lasting friendships, and gained a deeper understanding of American culture. The exchange visitors enthusiastically highlighted the employee activity calendar, a collection of daily staff activities, including sunrise hikes, wellness classes, and creative crafts. The day continued with a tour of the property, including employee housing which simulates an American college dorm. The day concluded with the international dinner, a diverse culinary food hall where exchange visitors prepared delicious dishes representing their home country and served them to over 300 community members.

YMCA of the Rockies' exchange visitor program and international dinner exemplifies the core values of the BridgeUSA program by creating meaningful connections between international exchange visitors and the local community.