A Unique Experience at Joni and Friends Family Retreat
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
John 1:5
We want to share a story that perfectly captures the beauty of Joni and Friends® Retreats and Getaways.
Bailey is 30 years old, full of joy, and she travels around the state of Louisiana and even the U.S. representing some of her favorite sports including bowling, horseshoes, swimming, and more. For years, Bailey and her mom, Lorna, have traveled near and far to make sure Bailey meets new friends and uses her God given talents and abilities.
But Bailey’s life isn’t easy. She was born with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition marked by developmental delays and medical challenges, some which can be life threatening. Her smile lights up a room—but behind it is a family carrying a heavy weight.
Her mom told me that life with Bailey is filled with love and activity, but there is also a feeling of isolation and worry. “Does anyone understand what life is really like?” Even being actively involved in the special needs community, Bailey and Lorna had not experienced a sense of understanding.
Then came Family Retreat and everything changed.
At Family Retreat , Bailey is celebrated for who she is. She is not seen as different but deeply valued and loved.
“My favorite part of Family Retreat is that I am brave enough to try new things here, things I never knew I could do, like rock wall climbing and drumming. And I love long walks in the woods which adds to the peace I have here. I always see Jesus at Family Retreat. Everything here reminds me of Him, and I never want to leave.”
Bailey
Her mom also has the chance to breathe. To be in a community that gets it. To be ministered to, not just as a caregiver, but as an individual. This year, Lorna attended Bible study at Family Retreat, the first time she has ever attended a Bible study in her life, and expressed how much being part of that Bible study encouraged her in her faith and desire to connect with a church when they returned home.
Through times of worship, Bible study, and one-on-one prayer, they were renewed in their faith and reminded: They are not alone.
Lorna says, “I feel so blessed to be with other parents who struggle with the same things I do with their children. We share without being judged. I enjoy the quiet time at Family Retreat. It allows me to reconnect with my thoughts and to lean on God. Bailey and I leave each year with heavy hearts knowing it will be another full year before this happens again but we look forward to other Joni and Friends events, like the Barnyard Dance, through the year.”
None of this happens without you.
Time and time again we hear from families that have attended Family Retreat and couples that have attended Marriage Getaway how their lives have been changed as a result of their experiences.
Families like Bailey’s are already reaching out, hoping for a spot at Family Retreats and Marriage Getaway. But the need is greater than ever—and we can’t say “yes” without your help.
Will you make a special gift to send more families to Family Retreat?
Your generosity will provide:
- Scholarships for families facing financial hardship
- One-on-one support through trained volunteers
- Christ-centered programming, worship, and encouragement
- Unforgettable moments of fun, joy, and belonging
Every gift makes a difference. You bring hope, rest, and renewal to families who desperately need it.
As Bailey put it, “Family Retreat is a glimpse of heaven. I feel free and lifted up here.”
Let’s give that gift to even more families.
Support Joni and Friends Louisiana
Your gift to Joni and Friends will promote Christ-centered friendships and create spaces of true belonging for people living with disability. Learn more about Joni and Friends Louisiana.
