This will be my third year serving (my first retreat was in 2019, and it was obviously cancelled in 2020), and I am so looking forward to it!
I will be going to week 2 of the Michigan retreat, at Maranatha, and am debating whether or not to do a second week (there are 3 weeks of retreat this year). They have a different theme each year, and I am looking forward to finding out what this year's theme is!
There are a few different ways you could serve at retreat. One way is by being a buddy to a camper/family.
Another way is by helping out with programing, with the hospitality table, the bookstore/shop, and similar jobs.
The third way, which is what I have done at the retreats I have served at, is running the sweet shop. I have a feeling I will be serving in this position again, for this year, but we will see what they decide (the directors and other people in charge of retreat choose where to place each STM (short term missionary), based on where they feel the person fits in best).
I am so thankful that I decided to go to week 2 my first time, as I met (and became friends with) some amazing people. They are truly inclusive, understanding, and welcoming, and I felt an immediate connection with them.
In a nutshell, retreat is where families/people living with disabilities can go for 5 days of fun, relaxation, worship, and friendship. They are taken care of by people who truly care for and love them.
If you are interested in learning more about Joni and Friends, you can go HERE, and if you would like to learn more about retreats, and to sign up for one (you can sign up to either volunteer, or participate as a family/camper), you can go HERE.
If you are on the fence about volunteering at a retreat, I suggest trying it once. You will definitely fall in love with the people, and serving them in one of the best ways possible. You will not regret it!!
I can't wait for June!
