Mental Wellness Retreat

Friday: Arrival & Grounding in Rest
4:00 PM – Check-In & Welcome
5:30 PM – Dinner & Introduction to the Weekend
6:30 PM – Community Connection / Coffee Bar
7:30 PM – Session 1
9:00 PM – Evening Practices (Choose One)

Saturday: Breaking Cycles & Healing Together
7:30 AM – Morning Embodied Practices (Choose One)
8:30 AM – Breakfast
9:30 AM – Session 2
11:00 AM – Breakout Circles (Choose One)
12:00 PM – Lunch & Free Time
2:00 PM – Session 3
3:15 PM – Restorative Outdoor Activities (Choose One)
4:30 PM – Panel Session
5:30 PM – Dinner
6:30 PM – Community Storytelling Session
8:00 PM – Free Time
9:30 PM – Campfire and S’mores

Sunday: Reimagining & Moving Forward
7:30 AM – Morning Practices (Choose One)
8:30 AM – Breakfast
9:30 AM – Session 5
11:00 AM – Session 6
12:00 PM – Closing Gathering & Farewell Reflections
1:00 PM – Departure

This is not a religious retreat. We are a Lutheran camp, and we are an inclusive space that allows for us to create programs for anyone who wants to enjoy our space. There will be no religious themes for this retreat.

The sessions will be knowing how trauma affects you, burnout in the body, learning your core values, and building community.

Two weeks prior to the retreat, confirm that your registration and electronic or paper health form are complete. 

Each participant needs to complete a HopeWood Adult Health Form, which you can access and complete on your online account or print, complete, and bring with you to camp. 

Communicate special needs and dietary restrictions at least two weeks prior to the retreat. If you did not specify this information on your registration, or if you have specific questions, contact camp directly at (419) 864-8030.

Participants are asked to pay in full two weeks before the retreat. You can access your online account to make a payment or you may also send a check (payable to HopeWood Outdoors) to: 

HopeWood Guest Relations Coordinator
2790 State Route 61
Marengo, OH 43334 

You can stay in the Priebe Retreat Center, which houses 2 people per room and has restrooms down the hallway, or Spring Run Cottage, which houses 5 people per room with an attached restroom in each room.  Cabins are also available.  Only bottom bunks will be filled. You are also welcome to commute if that is better suited for you. If you come with friends, group cabins are available.

HopeWood Outdoors encourages all participants to set aside time free from the distractions of daily life. The use of cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices during free time is at your discretion. Wireless access is available, although it is not always reliable in the camp setting.

You will be responsible for dispensing any medications for yourself or other family members. When not in your controlled possession, medications need to be stored in a locked container.

Staff members are trained in basic first aid for emergencies.

Note that some items are optional or can be substituted.

Health & Medication

• Medication labeled and in lockable container;  self-dispensed
• Family health form: Complete online or mail in two weeks prior to camp. A parent signature is required.

Personal Items

• Reusable face mask
• Hand sanitizer
• Towel(s)
• Toiletries (brush, comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, lotions)
• Sleepwear/pajamas
• Underwear and socks
• Jeans/pants and shorts
• Short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts
• Sweatshirts/sweaters
• Rain poncho or jacket
• Shower shoes (plastic flip flops)
• Gym shoes or boots
• Reusable water bottle

Optional Items

• Flashlight with batteries
• Sunglasses/hat
• Money (for the camp store)
• Book
• Table games
• Camera

Please DO NOT Bring

• Knives, guns, weapons, explosives, or fireworks
• Alcohol or illegal drugs
• Pets of any kind
• Aerosol products of any kind