Retreat Planning
Why should your organization have a retreat?
- to provide information to members
- to set expectations of members and officers
- to assist members in getting to know each other
- to set goals for the organization
- to resolve group conflicts
- to evaluate progress
- to motivate members
- to have fun!!!
When should your organization have a retreat?
- at the beginning of the year and or semester
- mid-year for a refresher
- before new officers are installed
Who should participate?
- members
- advisors
- officers
- workshop facilitators ( outside perspectives can bring new ideas)
Time ?
The length of time given to a retreat depends on what your organization wants to accomplish. If the team building is the only purpose of your retreat, then only half a day may be necessary. But if your organization is wanting to accomplish all tasks listed above, then a weekend might be necessary.
Who should facilitate the retreat?
- Outside consultants- an outside facilitator can encourage your organization to think out of the box, and bring new activities to the group.
- Advisor- your organization’s advisor is familiar with the group, students, and attitudes.
- Officers and/or members-If students are qualified and comfortable facilitating an activity during the retreat, then involvement is recommended and encouraged.
- Utilizing officers and/or members as facilitators is not recommended during times of conflict
Helpful Tips
When planning a retreat your organization must decide what activities and discussions will occur during the retreat, how much time you want to give each activity, and how you can involve your members in the planning. (Communication is the key to their participation and a successful retreat)
The steps to a successful retreat
Step 1: Set goals, i.e., brainstorming programming ideas, problem solving, teambuilding, addressing specific issues.
ALWAYS INCLUDE YOUR MEMBERS IN THE GOAL SETTING PROCESS!
Step 2: Determine the organization’s budget for the retreat. Possible expenses include: food, retreat site, transportation, workshop materials, and consultant fee.
Step 3: Create an Agenda:
-Breaks are very important
-Be careful not to overload your members with information
-Schedule free time (Team building occurs naturally during this time)
-Vary the presentation method so members do not get bored
Step 4: Plan your meals
Step 5: Develop a retreat evaluation.
