Wellness Retreat for Violent Crime Survivors
Discover Healing and Connection at Our Wellness Retreats for Violent Crime Survivors
Following the success of our first retreat last year, we are thrilled to announce two wellness retreats in 2026 for individuals impacted by violent crime. These retreats offer a safe, nurturing space to heal, connect, and restore your well-being.
Retreat Dates & Locations
May 1–4, 2026: Cle Elum, WA
July 24–27, 2026: Leavenworth, WA
Cost: Free to attend
Each retreat will be held at a private AirBnB, with the exact location shared only with confirmed participants to ensure safety and privacy. Every attendee will have their own bedroom for personal space and reflection. Retreats are limited to 6 participants each, creating a close-knit, supportive community.
Activities
Our agenda will be shaped around the needs and preferences of participants, with the final schedule shared approximately one month before the retreat. Possible activities include:
Nature walks
Sound baths
Meditation
Yoga
Forest bathing
Art and scrapbooking
Music therapy
Breathwork and wellness sessions
Journaling and reflection exercises
Group and individual healing sessions
Caring VSS staff will be present throughout the retreat to provide guidance, support, and reassurance; you will never be alone on this journey.
Eligibility
You must be 18 years or older. You do not need to be a current or former VSS client to attend. Individuals impacted by violent crimes such as homicide, attempted homicide, assault, vehicular homicide/assault, robbery, home invasion, or those with a missing loved one where foul play is suspected are encouraged to apply. Unfortunately, we are not funded to serve sexual assault and domestic violence victims so these crime types are not eligible to apply.
If you attended a previous retreat, you are welcome to apply again. All applicants must submit a new application, even if you applied or interviewed last year. Those wishing to attend with a loved one must each complete their own application, though sharing a room is allowed for comfort.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST.
For questions or more information, contact Amelia Bell, Community Support Coordinator, at Amelia@victimsupportservices.org.
We look forward to supporting you on this journey of healing, connection, and renewal.
On October 4-6, 2024, VSS hosted our Wellness Retreat in Gig Harbor. We brought together six amazing and courageous women who unfortunately share the same experience of losing a loved one to homicide.
Individuals impacted by crime can feel isolated or misunderstood even with strong support networks, and VSS provides safe spaces where individuals can connect with others who have shared experiences, while understanding that each of their stories is unique. This sense of community can help reduce feelings of isolation and help individuals build a network of support.
The weekend consisted of lots of vulnerability and sharing, forest bathing, grief journaling, art, sound healing, reiki, acupuncture and some time outdoors with a bonfire. More importantly, there were breakthroughs, organic conversations, coffee next to a warm fire, comforting food to fill our bellies, laughter, tears, and lifetime friendships formed.
Although this is a “club” that no one ever wants to be part of, we are grateful to provide a comforting space to help facilitate the connections and bonds formed amongst these women. It warms our hearts to know that they will be there to support each other as they continue their grief journeys.
