Why Families Living with Disability Love Family Retreat
The meltdown never came…
When Lisa and Martine brought their 26-year-old son, Ricky, to Family Retreat hosted by our New Mexico office, they held their breath anxiously, bracing for a meltdown. Diagnosed with autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Ricky relies on routines and struggles with flexibility.
To Lisa’s surprise, despite all the new faces and experiences Ricky encountered at Family Retreat, his meltdown never came. In fact, by the end of the first day amid the loving Joni and Friends community, Lisa had a Holy Spirit “aha” moment, realizing that her son was safe, loved, and understood—so she could release her worry and relax.
As Lisa and Martine quickly discovered, families like theirs find rest, joy, and belonging at Family Retreat. With caring one-on-one volunteers, accessible camp-style activities, inclusive worship, and times of rest, Family Retreat meets the needs of each member of the family.
A new friend for Ricky
Ricky and his volunteer buddy, Ron, bonded quickly. Ron, who has a nephew with Down syndrome and autism, naturally understood Ricky and drew out his strengths. For instance, discovering that Ricky has a knack for spelling, Ron encouraged him to take his spelling to the Talent Show stage… and it was a big success!
While Ricky enjoyed himself throughout Family Retreat, Lisa and Martine spent rare quality time together. They also connected with other parents going through similar life challenges and seasons. And while they didn’t know it at the time, they were building lasting community and friendships—something they needed more than they had realized.
“Dads, there’s a community here you didn’t even know you needed,” Martine says.
Inviting more families into Christ-centered community
Lisa was so moved by Family Retreat that she became an ongoing volunteer with our Joni and Friends office in New Mexico, eager to share the experience with other special needs families.
As Lisa says, “If you’re not sure about coming to Family Retreat, just come!”
Families living with disability leave Family Retreat refreshed and encouraged. And when they return home, our U.S. Area Ministries connect these families with Christ-centered, welcoming churches where they can experience belonging in the body of Christ, be discipled, and use their gifts to serve Jesus throughout the year.
Support Joni and Friends New Mexico
You can change the lives of special needs families by inviting them into the body of Christ! Learn more about Joni and Friends New Mexico.
