Empowering Spouses. Strengthening Family. Inspiring Hope.
Who We Are
The Alliance Resilience Retreat is not just another wellness program—it's a groundbreaking event that prioritizes the well-being of military spouses. Our inaugural retreat takes place in the tranquil setting of Browns Yard, New Brunswick, offering a unique opportunity for healing, connection, and personal growth. Embrace this chance to rejuvenate in a serene environment, surrounded by supportive peers and expert facilitators dedicated to guiding you on your wellness journey. Discover new tools and the incredible community to thrive at the Alliance Resilience Retreat.
Empowering Spouses. Strengthening Family. Inspiring Hope.
Our Wellness Vision
Our tailored wellness program is designed to address the critical needs of veteran spouses who often bear the immense burden of caregiving with minimal resources.
Being Canada’s first wellness program tailored exclusively for partners of veterans with post-traumatic stress we felt it paramount to incorporate a comprehensive blend of professional guidance, spousal community support, and holistic wellness activities. By focusing on the well being of spouses, we aim to foster resilience and provide essential tools for their personal growth and peer support.
Being Canada’s first wellness program tailored exclusively for partners of veterans with post-traumatic stress we felt it paramount to incorporate a comprehensive blend of professional guidance, spousal community support, and holistic wellness activities. By focusing on the well being of spouses, we aim to foster resilience and provide essential tools for their personal growth and peer support.
What Our Program Offers
- In-Person Retreats: Our inaugural retreat is set to take place from September 5th-9th, 2024, in Browns Yard, New Brunswick. Participants will experience professional guidance, community support, and holistic wellness activities in a serene, natural setting.
- Online Community and Support: Beyond our retreats, we are developing an online community and support network with volunteer administrators in each province. This platform will offer pre-program connections with other participants, provincial support groups, online workbooks, self-care resources, and a safe space to share experiences and find solace among peers who understand their unique challenges.
The Journey to Creating the Alliance Resilience Retreat
As the Program Director and spouse of a veteran for 25 years, Cindy Cummings has experienced firsthand the unique challenges and immense burdens faced by veteran spouses with minimal resources. Spouses often bear the weight of caregiving and experience isolation without a community that truly understands their struggles. Because of the lack of support, Cindy sought out ways for self-care and wrote a comprehensive journaling workbook called "Courageous Reflections," along with several other published works for spouses. This was her resolve to cope with the challenging life as a caregiver.
However, finding resources specific to her needs proved difficult. Impersonal online support groups were all that was available at the time. Faced with this gap, Cindy decided to create solutions based on her experiences. This journey led to the creation of "Courageous Reflections," a comprehensive journaling workbook for spouses, along with several other publications aimed at helping spouses navigate their roles as caregivers.
Creating and publishing self-care workbooks and guides, along with supporting veteran spouses on their self-care journeys, has fueled Cindy's dedication to the veteran community. Her extensive experience through the Alliance Veterans PTSD Retreat has been instrumental in this commitment.
Cindy cultivated a dedicated team eager to help with this incredible initiative. This team, with firsthand experience supporting the veteran and first responder community and their families, ensures the program's success is not just derived from textbook knowledge but from real experience in their respective professional fields.
These combined efforts have now evolved into the Alliance Resilience Retreat, a dedicated space where veteran spouses can find the respite, tools, and community they need.
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Filling The Gap
Recognizing the need for structured resources that provide respite, self-care tools, and a safe space for spouses to share their challenging lives as caregivers, we created the Alliance Resilience Retreat. This initiative operates under the non-profit umbrella of our successful veterans' wellness program, Alliance Veterans PTSD Retreat. This important program is designed exclusively for the spouses of veterans.
Through these retreats, we offer professional guidance, self care workshops, community support, and holistic wellness activities tailored to the specific needs of veteran spouses. Our goal is to foster resilience, personal growth, and a supportive community, ensuring that those who support our veterans receive the care and understanding they deserve.
About Our Program
The Alliance Resilience Retreat is dedicated to promoting the wellness and self-care of spouses of veterans. By offering a unique wellness program tailored specifically to their needs, we aim to address the challenges they face. Our retreat combines professional guidance from experienced facilitators, robust community support, and a variety of holistic wellness activities. These elements work together to empower participants, helping them build resilience and achieve personal well-being. The retreat environment fosters emotional healing, personal growth, and the development of coping strategies, ensuring that spouses leave equipped with the tools they need to support themselves and their families effectively.
Key Highlights:
- Professional Facilitation: Our program is led by experienced facilitators who have a deep understanding of trauma and its impacts on families. These professionals bring their expertise to create a safe and transformative experience.
- Holistic Wellness Activities: The retreat includes a variety of wellness activities such as trauma-specific yoga, meditation, art therapy, sound therapy, aqua therapy, and grounding techniques. These activities are designed to help participants heal and rejuvenate.
- Nutritious Meals: Participants will enjoy delicious and healthy meals prepared on-site, with vegetarian options available. We focus on providing balanced nutrition to support overall wellness.
- Tranquil Location: The retreat takes place in a serene, secluded waterfront property that provides a peaceful and healing environment. This setting allows participants to disconnect from daily stressors and focus on their well-being.
- Comprehensive Support: We offer emotional healing, coping strategies, personal growth opportunities, and community building. Our goal is to equip participants with the tools they need to support themselves and their families.
- Follow-Up Support: After the retreat, participants will have access to resources and connections that ensure ongoing wellness and support. This includes follow-up sessions and access to a supportive community.
Empowering Spouses. Strengthening Family. Inspiring Hope.
Alliance Resilience Retreat
September 5th-9th, 2024
The FIRST in Canada, a wellness retreat designed specifically for spouses of veterans with PTSD
You are worth it!
Location: Cedar Brook Landing River Lodge, 137 J R's Ln, Weldford ,Nb E4T1W3 New Brunswick
Cost: $1199.00 All Inclusive * transportation to the retreat locations excluded
About the Location:
Browns Yard is a tranquil and picturesque location ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled by the water, this serene setting offers a perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle, providing a peaceful environment for healing and self-care.
What’s Included
Relaxation and Wellness Activities
- Participate in morning mindfulness sessions, yoga, and other relaxation activities. Optional pampering services, such as massages and personal styling sessions, are available to help you unwind and rejuvenate.
Expert-Led Workshops and Sessions
- Engage in a full day of workshops and sessions led by experienced professionals, including psychotherapists, wellness coordinators, and mentors. Learn practical coping strategies, emotional healing techniques, and gain insights tailored specifically for spouses of veterans.
Community Building and Support
- Connect with fellow spouses of veterans in a safe and supportive environment. Share experiences, build lasting friendships, and find solace in knowing you are not alone in your journey.
Nutritious Meals and Snacks
- Enjoy delicious, chef-prepared meals and snacks throughout the retreat. All meals are designed to be nutritious and satisfying, catering to various dietary preferences and needs to ensure you feel nourished and energized.
Comfortable Shared Accommodations
- Stay in a beautiful, waterfront 7500 sq ft cabin with modern amenities and scenic views. The cabin includes five comfortable bedrooms, shared bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and spacious common areas for relaxation and socializing. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, nature trails, river views, and outdoor living spaces designed to enhance your retreat experience.
allianceresilienceretreat@gmail.com
Empowering Spouses, Strengthening Families, Inspiring Hope.
retreat keynote Highlight
Sajel Bellon Ed.D, RP, CTSS
We are thrilled to feature Sajel Bellon, Ed.D, RP, CTSS, as one of the esteemed facilitators at the Alliance Resilience Retreat. With her profound expertise and dynamic approach, Sajel brings a wealth of knowledge and innovative techniques to our program.
About Sajel Bellon: Sajel Bellon is a distinguished Professor, Psychotherapist, and the Founder of Mind Armour & SOS Psychotherapy. She is a renowned behavioral science expert, widely recognized for her contributions to mainstream platforms such as TEDx, Speaker Slam, DisruptHR, MoMondays, Medium.com, Authority Magazine, and Global News. Her work has been instrumental in addressing and mainstreaming tough issues related to mental health, suicide prevention, and behavioral wellness.
Professional Achievements: Sajel has developed and delivered impactful programs at world-class institutions and government agencies across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Notably, she created Canada’s first certificate programs in positive psychology and positive education, showcasing her commitment to advancing mental health education and practices.
Specializations: Sajel specializes in creating environments that foster re-defined work-life experiences, stronger relationships, and reframed conversations around mental health and suicide. Her dedication to minimizing the loss of life to suicide is evident through her efforts in cultivating cultures of connection and resiliency. She works tirelessly to remove the stigma associated with mental health issues and to promote open, supportive dialogues.
Retreat Contributions: At the Alliance Resilience Retreat, Sajel will leverage her extensive background to offer transformative sessions focused on mental wellness, resilience-building, and relationship re-connection. Participants will benefit from her innovative approaches and the supportive, enriching environment she helps to create.
Meet Our Wellness Team
Sajel Doshi Bellon
Ed.D,R.P,CTSS,PPC
Sajel Bellon Ed.D, RP, CTSS is Professor, Psychotherapist, the Founder of Mind Armour & SOS Psychotherapy. Sajel is a recognized behavioural science expert taking the tough issues to the mainstream, like TEDx, Speaker Slam, DisruptHR, MoMondays, Medium.com, Authority Magazine & Global News. She has developed and delivered programs at world class institutions and government agencies around the world including Canada, U.S. and Australia. She had created Canada's first positive psychology & positive education certificate programs. Sajel specializes in cultivating the space and conditions for re-defining work-life experiences, re-connecting relationships, and re-framing our conversations around mental health, suicide and its stigma. She is dedicated to minimizing the loss of life to suicide, by cultivating cultures of connection and resiliency.
Cindy Cummings
Program Director
Cynthia, is a spouse of a veteran with PTSD and the Program Director for Alliance Veterans PTSD Retreat and Alliance Resilience Retreat since 2015. She brings a compassionate and highly qualified approach. As a Yoga Alliance-certified instructor specializing in Trauma-Specific yoga, she utilizes yoga for healing and offers iRest Yoga Nidra meditation sessions to promote mindfulness and relaxation. Cynthia holds Mental Health First Aid and CPR certifications, ensuring participant safety. She is also a published author of several books, including "Courageous Reflections Journaling - For Partners of Veterans with PTSD," enriching our programs with her expertise and dedication.
Starr Cummings
Wellness Director
Meet Starr, the Wellness Coordinator at Alliance Veterans and Alliance Resilience Retreat. Starr brings a rich array of skills and qualifications to our program. As a Yoga Alliance 200H accredited instructor specializing in Trauma-Based Yoga and a Warriors at Ease Level 1 certified practitioner, she provides invaluable guidance in using yoga and meditation as healing tools. Starr is also a Lead Adventure Guide, a PADI Dive Instructor, and a Certified Rescue Diver. Her CPR, First Aid, and Mental Health First Aid certifications ensure participant safety and immediate support. Leading wellness workshops in art therapy, meditation, sound therapy, aqua therapy, and grounding techniques, Starr promotes healing, self-expression, and mindfulness, making her an invaluable asset to our program.
Bruno Guvremont
Workshop Facilitator
Meet Bruno Guevremont, a respected mentor at Alliance Veteran PTSD Retreat and now sharing his expertise to Alliance Resilience Retreat With expertise as a Neuro-Linguistic Programming Master Practitioner (NLP MP) and High Performance & Executive Coach, Bruno guides participants in overcoming mental obstacles and achieving personal and professional goals. As a Bell Let's Talk Ambassador and accomplished author, Bruno advocates for mental health awareness and provides valuable resources. A sought-after public speaker, Bruno's engaging presentations promote meaningful dialogue and positive change, contributing to a nurturing environment at Alliance Veteran PTSD Retreat and Alliance Resilience Retreat.
Rose Marchese
Personal Wellness
Rose Marchese, a veteran spouse, is a beauty facilitator at the Alliance Resilience Retreat, offering her wellness and beauty expertise. As a certified stylist, she provides personal pampering sessions, including organic facials, hair treatments, and styling. Rose helps participants achieve a fresh new look that matches their inner beauty. Her compassionate approach and professional skills create a nurturing environment, enhancing the transformative experience at the retreat.
our accommodations
Our wellness retreat will be hosted on a waterfront location in Browns Yard, New Brunswick, is a stunning 7400 sq ft home and provides a serene and rejuvenating experience for up to 24 participants.
The living room is equipped with a television, a beautiful fireplace, and ample sofa seating, creating a cozy atmosphere. The dining area has plenty of seating, and the loft includes additional sofa beds and a chess board for entertainment. The fully-equipped kitchen has all the necessary appliances, including a stove, refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and microwave. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, a washer and dryer, air conditioning, and heating.
Outside, the sprawling deck with patio furniture offers incredible views of the Richibucto River. Guests can enjoy a spacious yard with a fire pit and a hot tub.
For entertainment, the cabin offers a 50-inch flat-screen television, a piano, and free Wi-Fi. Heating and a cozy fireplace keep the accommodation warm on chilly afternoons. A washer and dryer are also available for added convenience.
Enjoy the perfect blend of privacy, tranquility, and community for our wellness and healing journey retreat. Whether participating in yoga and meditation on the relaxing deck, exploring the trails during nature therapy or enjoying the comfortable indoor amenities, these incredible accommodations are designed to support the rejuvenating experience.
expanding our reach
Building Our Future
At Alliance Resilience Retreat, our goal is to extend support to as many spouses, partners, and significant others of veterans with post-traumatic stress as possible. To achieve this, we are planning to host retreats across Canada, making our vital services accessible nationwide.
Our National program Will:
- Increase Accessibility: Ensure our programs are available to all regions of Canada.
- Build a National Community: Create a connected, supportive network of spouses and partners.
- Provide Consistent Support: Offer regular retreats to maintain continuous care and resources.
Our Planned Locations
- Western Canada: British Columbia and Alberta
- Central Canada: Ontario and Manitoba
- Eastern Canada: Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia
The need for such a program is evident based on feedback from the veteran spouse communities, support groups, and social media presence. There is a high demand specialized support for spouses of veterans with PTSD. Our future expansion plans are driven by this recognized need, aiming to establish similar retreats across Canada to provide essential support to more families.
our flag isnt just red & white
Together, we can create and sustain an inclusive and diverse community.
At the Alliance Resilience Retreat, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where all veteran spouses feel welcomed, valued, and supported. We recognize that the experiences and challenges faced by veteran spouses are unique and varied, and we strive to create a space where these differences are acknowledged and respected.
Our program is designed to cater to a wide range of needs and backgrounds, ensuring that every participant has access to the resources and support they require. We actively promote diversity by incorporating a variety of perspectives in our wellness activities, professional guidance, and community support initiatives. Our team includes facilitators and mentors from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique expertise and understanding to the retreat.
We believe that true healing and growth occur in a community where everyone feels included and heard. Therefore, we are dedicated to providing an environment that celebrates diversity, promotes equity, and fosters a sense of belonging. By embracing diversity and inclusion, we aim to build a stronger, more resilient community for all veteran spouses.
dont miss out! limited spaces!
Empowering Spouses. Strengthening Families. Inspiring Hope.
140 Mackellar Lane Gladwyn New Brunswick
200 Marys Turnaround Nanaimo BC
Cindy Cummings-Program Director
250 857 5901
allianceresilienceretreat@gmail.com
Hurry, spaces are limited, so don't miss out!