First Responder Wellness Retreat
August 28-30, 2026
This First Responder Wellness Retreat is a well-rounded program led by trained facilitators from Faith & Grief Ministries in partnership with Misty Ely, a veteran and first-responder specific trauma specialist. It is designed to address the unique grief that comes with such a demanding role. The retreat balances facilitated discussion, spiritual practice, and free time, and the spiritual aspect is approachable rather than church-like—people of all backgrounds are encouraged to participate.
This is one of two new events for First Responders hosted by Mo-Ranch as a way to say “thank you” for sharing your time and talents with our community, especially following the July 4th flooding.
What qualifies as a First Responder?
We are reaching beyond the traditional definition of First Responder, recognizing that other people were thrust into roles as first responders for our July 4th disaster. First responders participating may be employed or volunteer first responders, as well as school counselors, bus drivers, Search & Rescue personnel, community members, etc. who were called into acts of service. First Responders are not required to have served the Kerr County community to be a part of this retreat.
Have questions? Reach out to our Programs Department at 800.460.4401 x246
Schedule Coming Soon!
This retreat is provided at no charge to participants. Registration includes tuition, meals and housing.
If there are questions regarding your registration, a member of our team will contact you to confirm additional details such as housing requests (roommates), dietary needs, etc. Otherwise, you’ll receive a “good to know prior to arrival” email two weeks prior to your event.
· Hotel housing (two queen/full beds with a private bath)
Transportation
Mo-Ranch is 90 miles one-way, or a 2-hour drive from the nearest airport (SAT), allow 3 hours travel/check-in time for departures. We recommend generally scheduling arriving flights before 3 p.m. and departing flights after 3 p.m. to be sure you do not miss any of your event. If you need shuttle service to Mo-Ranch, call Kars for Hire in Kerrville at (830) 890-8200 at least 15 days in advance to arrange transportation from San Antonio International Airport. Click here for directions to Mo.
Packing Suggestions
We encourage guests to dress comfortably during your stay.
· Comfortable/casual clothes
· Comfortable walking shoes (close-toed shoes recommended)
· Flashlight (it is very dark here at night)
· Toiletries
· Sunblock, sunshades and hats
· Rain jacket
· Refillable water bottle
· Beds are ready upon arrive; rooms do not have mini-fridges, microwaves, TVs or hair dryers, so please plan accordingly.
· Towel are in rooms, and river towels are at the river and pool.
Trading Post Gift Shop
Make sure to stop by the Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly gift shop during your weekend to pick out a souvenir!
General Notes
· Hotel rooms are equipped with bed linens, bath towels. River and pool towels are available at those locations.
· Coffee is available 24/7 in the Mabee Registration Building.
· Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for guests.
· There is no public consumption of alcohol at Mo-Ranch. You are welcome to enjoy your adult beverages in your rented spaces.
· The front desk is staffed from 8:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. daily (at the latest), and a manager on duty is available after these hours.
· If you have an after-hours emergency, please call the Manager on Duty at 1.800.460.4401. You’ll be connected to a live answering service that will connect you to our Manager on Duty.
Questions
We’re happy to help! For questions regarding your event registration, please contact the Mo-Ranch Program Office at 800.460.4401 x246 or programs@moranch.com.
