Family Retreat

Family Retreat 2026 will take place October 16-18

Connect, Learn & Grow Together

The DFC Family Retreat is one of our most loved annual events — a special weekend where families of children living with type 1 diabetes come together to share the camp experience, strengthen bonds, and find community that lasts long after the retreat ends.

This retreat is for the whole family — parents, siblings, and even grandparents. It’s a chance to step away from the day-to-day, connect with others who truly understand, and make memories that remind you that you’re not alone on this journey.

While kids dive into fun camp-style activities with our trained volunteer counselors and connect with peers who share their experiences, parents and caregivers take part in sessions designed just for them — filled with learning, laughter, and conversations that build lasting support and friendship. Together, families join in special activities that create powerful shared moments of joy and connection.

You’ll leave refreshed, encouraged, and part of a community that feels like family.

Join us for the Family Retreat — where connection grows, support strengthens, and memories are made.

Families stay in comfortable cabins with full restrooms, showers, heating, and air conditioning — everything you need for a relaxed and meaningful weekend away.

FOR KIDS

Kids will be assigned to groups according to their grade in school. Under the supervision of counselors trained in diabetes management (most of whom are living with type 1 diabetes themselves), kids groups will rotate through multiple age-appropriate activities such as: zip lining; arts & crafts; a climbing tower; nature hikes; canoeing; sports & games, and more.

FOR ADULTS

Throughout the weekend, adults will have the opportunity to participate in various education sessions tailored to meet the range of experience levels. From families that have just received news of diagnosis to families who have been managing diabetes for years. Topics will include:

• Cutting edge technology for diabetes management (Pumps; CGMs; Artificial Pancreas)
• Psychosocial impact of diabetes (self-care tips for T1D caregivers; age appropriate expectations/teen issues; navigating sibling relationships; addressing challenges that T1D presents in marriage; etc)
• Beginner basics in diabetes management (carb counting; sick day plans and understanding ketones; intro to pumps & CGMs)
• Navigating diabetes issues in the school system
• Much, much more

FOR EVERYONE

There will be multiple opportunities throughout the weekend for participants to partake in various activities together as a family. Additionally, all meals will be eaten together as an entire community.