International Family Retreat: Volunteer and Make a Difference

Meet Nom and Ampan…

When Nom was born, he didn’t cry like other babies. For his mother, Ampan, Nom’s silence was her first indication that something was different about her son. “He was quiet,” says Ampan.

Nom and Ampan live in Thailand. In their community, some people view children with disabilities as a burden or a curse. Ampan does her best to give her son a full, connected life; but she often faces obstacles. 

As she says: “I am not ashamed of having a child with Down syndrome. I take Nom shopping with me and introduce him to society. But in my neighborhood, people did not accept that.”

Ampan understands that Nom is fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image.

She knows that her son deserves to experience acceptance, belonging, and love. And this conviction has led her to become an advocate—first for her own son. Now, Ampan not only speaks up for her son; she also advocates for and encourages other families living with disability, inspiring parents to bring their children out into the community in hopes that they will be accepted.

Yet while Ampan finds great purpose in raising her son as a single mother and supporting other families, she still misses the warmth of a larger family. When she found out about a Joni and Friends International Family Retreat, Ampan signed up.

International Family Retreat gave Ampan and Nom exactly what they needed!

At International Family Retreat Ampan and Nom found the connection, rest, and acceptance they had longed for. Ampan described not only her own experience at Family Retreat, but also the experiences had by other special needs parents:

“They are stressed out at home caring for their disabled children. Some come here crying and find support and encouragement. At Family Retreat, it feels like we’re with family.”

Ampan overflowed with gratitude at International Family Retreat. 

She said: “I have never been to any camp as good as this one! Family Retreat is superb! It’s a good opportunity for me to meet new friends, and Family Retreat makes Nom happy. It’s exciting to see Nom making friends…

Thank you for your kindness and generosity to underprivileged children who would never have a chance to be in a place like this.”

She also wanted to send her thanks and a personal message to Joni and Friends donors: “I wish you prosperity and success!”

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Proverbs 11:25

Joni and Friends International Family Retreat offers help and hope to families living with disabilities around the world. In partnership with local churches, Joni and Friends helps families find hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ!

You can make a difference! Come volunteer!

Apply to volunteer at Joni and Friends International Family Retreat and serve families living with disabilities—offering respite, hands-on help, and the hope of the Gospel. There are plenty of roles for volunteers regardless of previous experience working or volunteering with people with disabilities.

Volunteer opportunities include serving through worship, leading arts and crafts or games, leading large group sessions, and more. We are also looking for photographers, journalists, and videographers to capture moments and stories at the retreat.