We know that going through adolescence can be difficult, and even more so for those who have experienced the death of a loved one. Often a loss can lead to chronic depression, anxiety, and feelings of complete isolation. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be that way…
If you are between the ages of 13-19, and would like an opportunity to connect with peers who understand what you’re going through then attending the Vancouver Island Youth Retreat in Strathcona might be one of the best experiences you’ve had in a really long time.
Past participants consistently tell us that our retreats have changed their lives. Many stay connected with one another afterward – some for more than ten years!
During the youth retreat, participants will stay three nights in comfortable lodging near Strathcona National Park and experience an array of healing modalities including; Art Therapy, Land-based Healing, Music Therapy, Peer Support Groups, Individual Counselling, and much much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Attending the Retreat
What will we be doing?
There will be moments to relax as well as times that are scheduled for meals, group processes (therapy, land-based healing), and outdoor recreational activities (canoeing, hiking, etc).
Where will I sleep?
Youth attending this program will be staying in a heated chalet that will have 2-3 people per room.
Volunteers will stay in waterfront cabins that have separate bedrooms.
What will I eat?
Three wholesome meals will be provided along with snacks. Most of the food is made from scratch – breads, soups, etc – and the kitchen staff can also accomodate dietary restrictions.
Can I bring a phone or electronic device?
In order to achieve the greatest outcomes we strongly encourage participants not to bring their mobile devices (phones, tablets, etc.) to any of our retreat programs.
We also understand that some people may need access to their phones when it is time to return home. So, if you do need to bring your device then our expectation is that it will be turned off throughout the retreat program, and modes of transport.
Participants who are disruptive to others due to the use of electronic devices will be asked to leave.
What does it cost?
In an ideal world, we could serve grieving families all across this country without ever being concerned about finances. Unfortunately, there is little to no funding designated towards bereavement care in Canada, so we work tirelessly throughout the year to fundraise for our programming.
We also ask our participants to contribute so that we can sustain our services. For this youth retreat, we are requesting a contribution of $250, which is less than 1/4 of our actual costs to cover accommodations, meals, therapists, and so on. Payment can be made all at once, or through installments overtime.
Rest assured, nobody is ever turned away due to an inability to pay, nor are participants selected due to the amount they contribute.
Get Involved
Interested in Volunteering
Our volunteers play an integral role in supporting the quality of our programming. They often have the greatest of hearts and come from a variety of backgrounds – both personal and professional.
The time commitment for this program is five days – May 11-15, 2023 – in addition to an online orientation of approximately one hour.
If you are interested in joining us for this program then please complete your volunteer application today.
Official Sponsors of Lumara’s Vancouver Island Youth Retreat 2023
Chris Spencer Foundation
Become an Official Sponsor
Our amazing sponsors help us provide world-class grief and bereavement services to individuals and families all across Canada. No matter the amount, every contribution helps. If you are an individual or business interested in supporting this program then please reach out to us. Sponsors can receive recognition through our website, printed materials, and on location at numerous events throughout the year.