In early September, Fiver families came together at Camp for two days of connection, laughter, and cherished Fiver traditions. Our Annual Family Retreat gives parents, caregivers, and siblings the opportunity to experience a place they often know through their children’s stories and photos.
For Fivers, it’s a special opportunity to share a place many consider a second home: to show their families around, introduce them to familiar faces, and take part in favorite activities together. For their families, it’s a chance to get to know the people, spaces, and experiences that are an important part of their children’s lives—and to make their own memories at Camp.
The weekend kicked off with icebreakers and the always-spirited Fiver Relay. It didn’t take long for families to settle into the rhythm of camp life and start forming bonds with one another. From there, the weekend unfolded with a mix of classic camp activities and moments to simply unwind together: singing favorite Fiver songs, laughing through Family Bingo, and expressing creativity with jewelry-making and crafts.
This year’s Family Retreat also offered space to explore the realities of family life beyond the fun and games. Throughout the weekend, parents and caregivers participated in facilitated workshops, including the Parent Power Hour, designed to support and strengthen relationships.
Parents discussed navigating tough conversations and picked up practical strategies for supporting their children through transitions and milestones. These sessions gave families time to learn alongside one another, share their experiences, and reflect on how to support their children throughout the year.
We brought the weekend to a close with the Whole-Self Ceremony at Tucker Point. As families shared what Fiver means to them, we heard reflections on the relationships they had built, their shared experiences, and their sense of belonging. The ceremony concluded with the presenting of dog tags from young people to their parents, continuing a cherished Fiver tradition and offering a meaningful end to the weekend.
We are grateful to all the families who joined us and helped make the weekend meaningful. Thank you for sharing your stories, trying something new, and spending this time together. We look forward to welcoming you back to Camp.
