On behalf of Georgia TSA, I want to extend our deepest thanks for helping make this year’s Chapter Officer Retreat for Excellence (CORE) another unforgettable experience. Each time we return to the Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center at Ramah Darom, I am reminded of just how special this place is and that’s due in large part to the outstanding staff who make it all happen.
From the very beginning of planning, every need was anticipated, and the team guided us through every detail.
From the very beginning of planning, every need was anticipated, and the team guided us through every detail. Coordinating the arrival and departure of more than 600 students and advisors from over 80 schools is no small task, yet they make it look seamless. Our attendees arrive in everything from small cars and activity buses to full-size school buses and even charter buses. Whether parking for the weekend or navigating drop-off and pick-up, the Ramah Darom team somehow make it all work with grace and efficiency.
Once on site, every member of the team – from maintenance and recreational staff to the dining hall – plays a role in creating an atmosphere where our members can focus fully on leadership, growth, and connection. The Dining Team’s willingness to work with us on developing menus while thoughtfully accommodating a variety of dietary restrictions is one more way the Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center goes above and beyond to ensure all participants feel included and cared for.
The flexibility of their spaces allowed us to host general sessions for our entire group of over 600.
The flexibility of their spaces allowed us to host general sessions for our entire group of over 600, break out into smaller leadership sessions, and utilize open areas for recreation or structured program activities like our CORE Olympics or our annual Tailgate Party with student-created carnival games. Students especially love the gaga ball pits, tennis and pickleball courts, and volleyball — all of which add to the sense of community and fun that defines CORE.
The setting itself is truly unmatched.
The setting itself is truly unmatched. The beauty of the mountains, lake, and waterfalls creates the perfect backdrop for both reflection and connection. We continue to see the gift of being “unplugged” without the constant distraction of cell service, our students and advisors are more present with each other. At the same time, the secure WiFi ensures our staff can manage the behind-the-scenes logistics that keep a conference of this size running smoothly.
It is no exaggeration to say that the Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center has become a true partner in the mission of Georgia TSA’s CORE.
It is no exaggeration to say that the Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center has become a true partner in the mission of Georgia TSA’s CORE. The combination of a beautiful facility, dedicated staff, and Julie’s [Ramah Darom’s Event Manager] personal commitment to excellence creates the ideal environment for our students to grow as leaders. Here, they not only develop skills and confidence but also craft plans they will carry back to their local chapters — multiplying the impact of CORE across the state.
We are already looking forward to our next event at the Kaplan Mitchell Retreat Center!
