Being in nature, being surrounded by people who genuinely care about them, being able to run around…brings hope.”
Middle School Teacher
Dunrovin understands youth. Their needs, their fears, their strengths. Teachers and youth ministers understand youth. They know sometimes students need to get away from the stress of daily life to make space for an encounter with God.
This is Dunrovin’s specialty. Students thrive as they encounter the beauty of God’s creation, where each day offers a fresh start. New strengths shine in a new environment, away from studies and exams, away from the city.
A retreat offers a new beginning for each student.
LEAD Encounter
Offers a nurturing, safe space where middle school students are encouraged to meet God personally. Dynamic teen leaders or young adults share their faith journeys with the students in an environment where faith is caught, not taught. Students learn to trust, find inner courage, and recognize that God loves them. Fun and engaging activities include large group games, outdoor activities, age-appropriate prayer, and building friendship.
[The teen leaders] were great role models, being respectful, helpful, encouraging, and positive at all times.”
Catholic School teacher of 7th and 8th grades
Quick answers to frequently asked questions
- Who can come? LEAD is open to all middle schools, high schools, and parishes.
- How many can come? The ideal group is a single grade level with a maximum of 30 students, but grades from one school can be combined if small.
- What are the retreat objectives? Goals of all the activities aim to build community, faith, personal development, and servant leadership skills. Our staff communicates with the school/parish faculty and staff to determine content based on the group’s age and needs.
- What do the students do during a retreat? A typical schedule includes large group games for exercise and to build community, a delicious meal, and reverent prayer appropriate to the age level. LEAD is a training program, so students participate in teambuilding challenges, which teach them to think outside the box, learn to listen respectfully, and discover creative thinking. By overcoming challenges together as a team, students grow in confidence and relationship. They learn to trust.
- How long is the retreat? Single or multi-day options, day or overnight, are available.
- How much does it cost? Fees are based on a sliding scale. Some schools may qualify for subsidized programming.
Leadership Experience At Dunrovin: a three-step servant leadership youth program
ChrisV@dunrovin.org | 651-252-0500