A Week of Family Fun
Held at accessible camp and conference centers across the United States, Family Retreats provide dynamic programs that refresh and strengthen your whole family.
The retreat offers a change of pace where you can have fun together in a safe and accepting environment. You'll be able to get away and enjoy God's creation…you'll meet and fellowship with others who face similar concerns…you'll build lasting memories together as a family…as well as a renewed hope in God.
Practical Help and Care
A caring and trained Short Term Missionary will be assigned to your family to serve you and provide any practical support you need to make the week restful and enjoyable.
While each camp or conference center has its own unique facilities, every Family Retreat is packed with exciting adventures for the whole family. Several sites have amenities such as climbing walls and ropes courses, boating, hiking trails, mud pits, and a host of other activities to energize the week.
Each day the youth and children enjoy exciting age-appropriate camp activities, crafts, and recreational activities…and, most importantly, they will have the freedom to be themselves.
Moms and Dads have the opportunity to enjoy Christ-centered worship, teaching and practical seminars that address family life and issues related to life with a disability.
Optional men's and women's small groups will provide opportunities to share your struggles and victories with people who understand and live with similar challenges.
The evenings are full of family oriented activities like talent shows, carnivals, and more…all in a warm, accepting environment.
Invest in the Future of Your Family
Joni and Friends Family Retreats provide a lifeline to families - families just like yours - who want hope and encouragement that will last. You and your family will be blessed, inspired, and make new friendships that will last a lifetime.
FAMILY REGISTRATION
When should I apply?
We recommend registering as early as possible. The retreats reach capacity quickly. Applications are accepted until a retreat is filled, or up to two weeks before the retreat begins.
How do I apply?
Currently, applications are being accepted by the Retreat Directors via email or phone calls. You can find their contact information on the current schedule.
How much does it cost?
The cost of camp varies from location to location both for families and STM's. Please contact the area ministry operating the Family Retreat you are interested in attending.
We do not provide refunds except for cancellations due to an emergency.
May we attend if we've been to a retreat before?
Yes. Although we seek to reach as many new families as possible, everyone is welcome to return.
What if we can't afford to pay?
There is a wonderful list of State Funding Resources online. Just find the state where you live in the drop down list. Several families have had much luck with these lists.
Many families attend with the help of their church, friends, or organization. Often government funds can be used for respite and camping for the family member with a disability.
Families who seek support from their church, friends, family, and other agencies will often discover continuing sources of support and assistance that last far beyond their time at a Family Retreat.
Scholarships are available for families who would not be able to attend otherwise. Speak with your Retreat Director if you'd like to request a scholarship.
What accommodations are made for my family's needs?
The retreat sites are generally accessible, some more than others. We do our best to meet the needs of each family based on accommodation, dietary, or other needs you indicate on the forms.
What kind of assistance will my family receive?
Your family will be assigned a Short Term Missionary who will offer friendship, support, and any general assistance you need.
Each Short Term Missionary has undergone a thorough screening, background check, and completed our training course. Several of our Short Term Missionaries have served during previous years.
Short Term Missionaries also serve in the child and youth programs and may assist in other areas based on their individual skills. Your Short Term Missionary will be with you at each of the meals and program activities.
Short Term Missionaries room in separate accommodations and do not provide personal or medical care. If you require personal or medical care, please make arrangements to bring an attendant with you.
What will my family do at camp?
The program is flexible and designed to give your family time together in a camp atmosphere.
Each morning the children and youth are engaged in age appropriate activities while the adults meet together for general sessions and optional seminars that address a variety of issues.
The afternoons are free to relax or participate in a variety of optional activities.
Evening events are geared for the whole family and may include family games, campfires, concerts, or talent shows.
Is transportation provided?
We do not provide transportation to or from Family Retreats. Maps are available online or by request.
We look forward to seeing you at one of our retreats!
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Since 1991 families from around the country have attended Joni and Friends Family Retreats seeking a time of rest and recreation, Christ-centered encouragement, and the tools to build a stronger family.
