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Student Leader Guides | Resources for Leaders | Campus Policies

Retreat Planning

 

(Click Here for Printable Version)EFORE THE RETREAT

Departure: Time & Location for the group to meet, means of transportation to the site

  1. Arrival: When will you get there, what happens first?
  2. Unpack & Set-up: During this time, create some “getting to know you atmosphere.”

RETREAT AGENDA

“Getting to Know You”: A beginning activity to warm people up.

  1. Set the purpose, goals and objectives: Some groups will determine this before they leave for the retreat, others need to do this upon arrival. It must be done first thing, however.
  2. Set Ground Rules: What are they? The group should set them together.
  3. Team builders, Sessions, Discussions, Free Time, etc. are at the core of the retreat.
  4. Energizers and Breaks are a necessity. Remember to include them!
  5. Closure: Evaluate the retreat and have everyone share a thing they learned.

AFTER THE RETREAT

Follow up. Include portions of the retreat in training or in meetings. Use the goals and objectives throughout the year.

HELPFUL HINTS

Have constructive free time. Plan recreation on site for people to stay together.

  • Allow other members of the group to plan retreat agenda items.
  • Delegate tasks to group members during the retreat to encourage ownership.
  • Creative planning for the location, the events, and the people can be crucial.

Information adapted from Occidental College-Office of Student Life

(Click Here for Printable Version)