Nestled among 84 acres of conserved land in Sarasota, Resilient Retreat is more than a sanctuary—it’s a lifeline. Here, survivors of trauma and those who support them find a safe haven to rest, reconnect, and rebuild. Through free, confidential, evidence-based programs and retreat experiences, Resilient Retreat empowers people to transform pain into purpose—creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the individual.

At the heart of every offering is The Framework of Resilient Retreat, a trauma-informed model designed to help participants strengthen four key areas of resilience: Interpersonal, Meaning Making, Regulatory, and Environmental Strengths. This holistic approach weaves together evidence-based practices and the principles of trauma-informed care to meet each person where they are—and guide them toward renewed wellbeing.

Interpersonal Strengths

Human beings are wired for connection. Resilient Retreat programs such as peer support groups, family-style meals, and the Kind Line help participants rediscover a sense of belonging. These opportunities allow individuals to safely connect with others who understand, offering and receiving compassion, and rebuilding trust in community.

Meaning Making Strengths

Adversity often prompts deep reflection. Through journaling, expressive arts, post-traumatic growth discussions, and volunteering, participants learn to make meaning of their experiences—identifying purpose, gratitude, and personal growth along the way. These programs help survivors embrace understanding, acceptance, and hope for the future.

Regulatory Strengths

Healing also happens through the body. Programs like yoga, mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and neurofeedback teach participants to calm the nervous system and regulate emotions. By learning to “respond” instead of “react,” participants begin to feel more balanced, centered, and in control of their wellbeing.

Environmental Strengths

Nature is one of the most powerful teachers of resilience. Through forest bathing, outdoor programs, therapy animals, and hygge-inspired design, Resilient Retreat creates environments that nurture healing. Participants rediscover calm in the natural world and learn how their surroundings can support ongoing wellness long after they leave the retreat.

“For the first time in years, I felt like I could exhale,” shares one participant. “At Resilient Retreat, I wasn’t alone anymore. I learned that healing isn’t something you do by yourself—it’s something you do together.”

The impact of this work extends far beyond the individual. As participants heal, their families, workplaces, and communities benefit too. A calmer parent strengthens their family. A more centered teacher or first responder brings empathy to their work. Friends reconnect. Communities become more compassionate and connected.

Behind each class, kind line call and retreat experience is a simple truth: when one person heals, everyone around them grows stronger.

An Invitation to Support Healing

To sustain and expand these life-changing programs, Resilient Retreat invites the community to gather for its signature annual fundraiser, Farm to Table: A Mediterranean Evening, on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at the Resilient Retreat campus.

This unforgettable evening will feature exquisite Mediterranean-inspired cuisine by local restaurants including Atria, Florence and The Spice Boys, Michael’s on East and Rose & Ivy as well as fine wine, music, and heartfelt connection—all under the stars in one of Sarasota’s most serene settings. All proceeds from the event will benefit Resilient Retreat’s free, life-saving programs and retreats, as well as the Kind Line, a free and confidential emotional support line offering compassionate listening and resources to anyone in need.

By attending or sponsoring the event, guests become part of the healing journey—helping trauma survivors, first responders, and helping professionals continue their path toward resilience.

To learn more about Resilient Retreat’s free, evidence-based programs and retreat experiences, or to screen in for services, please call 941-343-0039 or visit www.resilientretreat.org

To purchase tickets and sponsorships for Farm to Table: A Mediterranean Evening, please scan the QR code below or visit our website.