Trans Youth Retreat FAQ

What measures do you take to ensure my teen is safe?

We do not share the address of our retreat or post it publicly (i.e., on social media, on the application, on our website, etc). The address will be provided once applicants are accepted, and we ask that participants do not share it publicly as well. The retreat center is also protected by a secure gate.

We interview all counselors in person or virtually. All counselors are required to undergo a background check and comprehensive counselor training.

What if my teen has an emergency or needs medication?

We will have a registered nurse at the retreat. If there is an emergency, we will immediately notify caregivers and take teens to the nearest hospital. On the application, we ask for information such as the physician's name, insurance, what medications the caregiver permits to be given, etc.

The retreat registered nurse collects all medications upon arrival and keeps them in a locked location (refrigerated if needed). Medications are only distributed by the retreat nurse at the appropriate times. Based on caregiver response on the application, we may dispense over-the-counter medications such as Advil or Tylenol should the need arise (e.g. headache, sore throat).

What are your COVID-19 policies?

All participants, counselors, and additional staff are required to be vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. Additionally, all will be required to take a COVID-19 test either 24 hours before arrival or onsite upon arrival at the retreat center. 

Before the retreat, all caregivers will be given the phone number of a Sam & Devorah staff member should they need to contact their child in case of an emergency. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to retreat@samdevorah.org.

You can find the packing list for the Trans Youth Retreat here.