Attend a Retreat
Who are Espero Retreats for?
We serve mothers of autistic children. We know that getting an official diagnosis is difficult and that there’s a good chance you don’t have one. What’s more, you may have a diagnosis, but for something else… It is very common for children on the autism spectrum to be misdiagnosed with other disorders such as ADHD or ODD. Although we want to help all moms (our hearts go out to all of you!), our main focus is on moms of kids with autism. If you have any inkling your child might be on the autism spectrum, please feel free to apply!
Who are Espero Retreats not for?
We are not able to provide any help or care for your autistic child while you are at our retreat, so our events currently aren’t for those who need additional help with their child/children in order to attend. Please only apply if you know you can make the necessary arrangements at home for the length of the retreat. Also, we are not currently set up to serve anyone with health issues that would require special accommodations to participate fully in the retreat activities.
Please feel free to email us and let us know which accommodations you would need specifically to see if there is anything we can do now (and for us to keep in mind as we grow and expand). We have high hopes of expanding to serve all moms as we grow, so please keep checking back!
Will it cost me anything to attend an Espero Retreat?
Thanks to the generosity of our many donors, moms attend an Espero retreat at no cost to them with a small value exchange. Food, lodging (when applicable), and activities are provided. You will be responsible for transportation to/from the retreat location.
What should I expect at an Espero Retreat?
Our retreats offer a variety of activities specifically chosen to help you get rest, renewal, and connection. Each activity will also give you ideas for things that may be helpful for your autistic child. We have several speakers that will address topics specifically requested by our moms. We pack a lot in, but we leave ample time for each activity and allow time for reflection and connection. Our goal is to provide support for our moms through activities, education, community, and personal time. By the time you leave, be prepared to head home feeling renewed and inspired!
Activities
Participate in a wide range of experiential activities that will help you feel rested and renewed. Many of our activities are things you can take home to use with your autistic children to also help them. Be prepared to create lasting memories!
Education
Learn about a variety of topics that are specifically selected to help you feel stronger, more resilient, and more confident in your role as mother. You will also have time to talk to other mothers and learn from each other.
Community
We will have plenty of time to connect with others at the retreat to start building long-lasting, uplifting friendships and community. Our goal is for you to leave the retreat knowing you are not alone. You will be part of a network of amazing moms who relate with each other. We encourage attendees to stay in touch and continue to support one another after the retreat.
Personal Time
During our retreats, we want to make sure you have some personal time to relax and reflect on what you are learning and experiencing. You may choose to spend this time by yourself in any way you choose, or you may spend time creating connections with the other women at the retreat.
Step 1
Explore this website to learn about our retreat and discover if Espero Retreat is right for you. (Be sure and read “Who are Espero Retreats for?” and “Who are Espero Retreats not for?” above.)
Step 2
If we are a good fit, let us know you’re interested in attending a retreat.
Step 3
Watch for an email to confirm you have been added to the Espero Retreat wait list. Give yourself lots of hugs as you patiently wait to be contacted about possible retreat dates for you to attend.
Step 4
Once you’ve been contacted, confirm a retreat date that works for you and watch your email for more information.
Step 5
Make the necessary travel arrangements to get to the retreat. Then all you have to do is pack your bags and show up ready to get spoiled.
Step 6
Attend the retreat, where we’ll immerse you in incredible experiences and you’ll find rest, renewal, and connection.
Step 7
Return to your family feeling more resilient.
