For the past 15 years, CAP has hosted an annual Women’s Retreat at their Camp Andrew Jackson in Jackson, Kentucky. Each spring, more than 45 women join together for three days to enjoy community living and spiritual growth. It is heartwarming to see multigenerational families strengthen their bonds during an extraordinary weekend of emotional rejuvenation.

Each day starts out with an hour of devotion time, followed by an afternoon of seminars and free time, then an evening of worship and campfires. Free time is spent hiking, fishing, swimming, and simply enjoying the great outdoors.

Building bonds that last a lifetime

Each woman attending the retreat has her own unique story. Many are caregivers who spend all their time giving to others. The retreat provides them with an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of their lives at home and rejuvenate, relax, and enjoy recreational activities.

It’s a rare chance for them to focus on self-care, stress management, and living with mindfulness.

The bond these women have developed by the end of the week is amazing. While some women arrive in groups and others reunite year after year, there are always first-timers as well. Everyone leaves feeling a part of something bigger.

The few days these ladies spend together often restore hope that many may have lost due to a variety of challenging life events. The Women’s Retreat is truly a life-changing experience and one of the many ways that CAP strives to rebuild communities in Appalachia, one family at a time.

A CAP women's retreat is a spiritual and transformational experience for many attendees.