By , Special to JTNews
Scheduled for April 12-14 at Camp Solomon Schechter in Olympia, the 12th Annual Jewish Single Parent Family Retreat promises to be another fun and engaging weekend. This is a popular and well-received program that encourages returning families, as well as welcomes new families.
This year’s theme is “Creating Community,” which will be introduced through adult and kids programming. Attendees will challenge their beliefs and expand their thinking about what makes community and celebrate Shabbat together in a joyous and respectful environment.
A wide variety of programming includes singing, playing games, hiking, enjoying a campfire after Shabbat and, of course, making new friends. Adults will gain support from others by sharing the unique pressures experienced through single parenthood. Additionally, parents will have the opportunity to partake in some quiet time for personal reflection while counselors spend time with the kids. Shabbat afternoon will feature intergenerational activities.
The retreat staff from Jewish Family Service includes, Karen Gorrin, M.A., adult Program director; Suzanne Engleberg, Ph.D., children’s program director; Sarah Rachel Egelman, M.A.I.S., lead counselor; and Rachel Hyman, Psy.D., retreat coordinator. Several educators, artists, environmentalists and counselors will offer their enthusiasm and expertise to enhance the weekend’s activities.
“This is a rich opportunity for single parents to gather together in a safe environment to gain and offer support and to learn from one another,” says Gorrin.
She adds, “This year, the children’s programming will be expanded to include more time for kids to be together and in turn gives parents additional time to spend with other adults or on their own.”
The cost for the weekend is $95 per adult and $55 per child, which includes all kosher meals, lodging and transportation from Seattle to and from the camp. Scholarships are available.
The retreat is sponsored by Jewish Family Life Education, the educational component of Jewish Family Service, with funding provided by the Shulman/Loeb Family Foundation. Space is limited. To register, contact Jewish Family Service, at 206-461-3240 or e-mail [email protected].