First launched in Monterey, California in 2006, the Site (SITE Global) International Foundation’s now annual Site Classic has firmly established its place as a not-to-be-missed forum for motivational events and incentive travel industry leaders to meet, engage, discuss and give back to the industry.
Returning to Monterey for its fifth anniversary, the host location was the stunning Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. The 2011 edition grew in size, but remained intimate with 170 event partners and invited guests in attendance.
Site International Foundation President, Steve O'Malley stated, "I am passionate about the research that the Foundation is delivering to Site members and our global community — it is why I choose to be a part of this organization."
"It has been exciting over the years to watch the Foundation and its events grow, but with this Site Classic I am truly overwhelmed by the generosity of the destination, our partners and the participants. When the event is closed out we anticipate that nearly $125,000 will be available to be invested back into research and educational program support for the incentive and travel professional and this creates a winning scenario for all of us.”
Under the banner of “Make it Happen in Monterey,” the Site Classic 2011 was designed to offer world class experiences and powerful networking amid the spectacular backdrop of Monterey County.
Golfers took to the greens at the Links at Spanish Bay, Carmel Valley Ranch and Bayonet Golf Course.
Participants got closer to nature in Land Rovers, kayaks and bee keeper suits. Those with refined taste took part in jewelry making, a cooking demonstration and a highly applauded wine pairings session at Bernardus Lodge. For those with a love of fresh air and scenic vistas, the Big Sur coastal tour served up spectacular views.
Site International Foundation Trustee and Foundation lead for the Site Classic since its inception, Madelyn Marusa, Allied PRA, stated, “This program demonstrated the commitment of the region of Monterey to offer remarkable incentive quality experiences that not only represent diversity and wide appeal, but can be easily designed with sustainability and CSR in mind."
"We must thank our host committee for incorporating so many ‘right choices’ into this program and for introducing our participants to the Rancho Cielo Youth Campus and the Drummond Culinary Academy, an organization training at-risk youth for employment in the culinary and hospitality industry.”
Under the combined support of education partner InterContinental Hotels Group and CSR partner Travel Alberta, the planning committee was able to weave sustainable elements into the entire program and then tell delegates a story about the choices made.
Event venues — the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, the Hyatt Regency Monterey, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the LEED certified Portola Hotel & Spa — displayed a commitment to green meeting standards and incorporated locally grown food not only in meals but also as unique and playful decor.
In addition to Rancho Cielo Youth campus, the event also made contributions to the Community Partnership for Youth and Peacock Acres.
But it was perhaps the auction that provided some of the most surprising moments of the event. While there were cruises, resort stays and adventure experiences, the pinnacle of the night was a package comprised of one million InterContinental Hotels Group Priority Club® Rewards points.
All items auctioned contributed to the event’s overall fundraising goal and the Trustees of the Site International Foundation gratefully thank all donors.
