The New Mexico Baptist Foundation in Albuquerque reaches beyond its mission statement to serve other Christian ministries in New Mexico and around the world. Since 2002, it has offered travel and fellowship opportunities to senior adults throughout the state.
“It’s a perfect way for senior adults to feel comfortable in travel and social situations,” said Kelly May, group travel leader and development assistant for the foundation. “We really offer a cocoon of comfort to many people who otherwise wouldn’t travel. And, we encourage people of all ages to hop on board — our travels have included events ranging from family reunions to wedding anniversaries,”
May has been at the helm for the nine years the foundation has offered travel. Although her in-house position requires public relations skills, she claimed she had no formal training for the travel component of her job description.
“I simply love to travel, but admittedly, I’m extremely organized, and that is an essential quality. It’s an easy job for me because I am so detail oriented, and I love doing for others,” she said.
Although a variety of activities and travel are offered, it’s the annual “big one” that May cherishes most. Often a cruise arranged by a tour operator, the big one has allowed the group to enjoyed Alaska, the Hawaiian Islands and the Northwest coastal area via Norwegian Cruise Lines.
“They offer a freestyle type of travel where passengers are not tied to the clock,” said May. “It’s a more relaxed atmosphere. They also stop in little places like Astoria, Ore., where you feel there isn’t another tourist around. It’s just the best.”
Williamsburg, Va., was also a favorite. “We went for the Grand Illumination, the official kickoff for their Christmas season, and it had to be the best fireworks display ever,” she said. “We loved the history there. We so enjoy the history in this country that is different from ours in New Mexico.”
Although “historic,” “exotic” and “exciting” are adjectives May used to describe the group’s travels, she maintained that ultimately, the destination is not that important.
“We want to offer a high-quality experience with great satisfaction, keeping in mind we travel in low season and stay at moderate hotels to keep the price reasonable and the tourist traffic at a minimum,” she said.
“The real highlights for our travelers are the laughter and companionship while enjoying the sights and creating memories. For me, the smiles on faces in distant lands, reflecting the feelings of safety and comfort, are priceless.”
May also offers a free summer picnic where hundreds of guests enjoy food and entertainment. “It’s always a lighthearted atmosphere where music plays a big part,” she said. “We’ve had a senior adult choir, and even six of our Baptist music ministers have performed.
“We also do an annual trip to a local Baptist camp where great storytellers and comedians, along with the big sky, are the stars.”
This passionate group leader is in the process of getting her business management degree, with an emphasis on event planning, from a local university. “I only have time to take one class per semester, so it’s going to take some time,” she groaned.
But May quickly added a more upbeat spin: “You know, the time factor really doesn’t bother me. If there is one thing I’ve learned from my travelers, it’s to not focus so much on the end result. Just enjoy the ride.”
