What to expect at an All-S Retreat?

  • The All-S Retreat takes place over the weekend, typically from Thursday-Sunday or Friday-Monday.

    Every day of the retreat will feature several 20 - 30 minute leads from fellows of different fellowships, followed by breakout meetings, with scheduled free time, activities, and workshops.

    Though both retreats are similar in format for leads and breakouts, the activities for down-time vary somewhat between a summer and winter retreat.

  • We welcome the partners of our fellows in recovery for sex and love addiction. If attendance allows, we provide a separate breakout room for supportive partners after leads, and are happy to facilitate special workshops and special interest meetings.

  • Anyone who thinks they may have a sexual and romantic addiction, or who is still determining if they may have this problem is welcome, as long as the anonymity of those persons attending this retreat is respected.

    For the safety of our group, this meeting is closed to outsiders, and those who are merely curious about sexual and romantic addictions. The only exception is supportive partners of our fellows in program.

    This retreat is not open to those considering attending the retreat for purposes other than working the program (i.e., Therapist, Law Enforcement, etc.).

  • Usually taking place during the first, second, or third weekend of June, the summer retreat features outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, kayaking, bonfires, and more.

    With more of an emphasis on outdoor activities, the summer retreat can feel more active and nature-focused.

  • Usually taking place over the weekend of New Year’s Eve, the Winter Retreat takes advantage of La Salle Manor’s beautiful lodge setting. Featuring cozy fireplaces and indoor activities, the Winter Retreat can feel more contemplative and comforting.

    On New Year’s Eve, a group of volunteers usually hosts a New Year’s party with a countdown.

    La Salle Manor’s 350 acres of land are still available for hiking and outdoor activities if desired.

  • Safety is a priority at every All-S Retreat. Although Covid numbers have gone down significantly, we still do what we can to prevent spread during the retreat.

    If someone tests positive for Covid before the retreat, they will be unable to attend but will receive a full refund.

    During sign in, attendees’ temperatures will be taken and they will be asked if they have experienced any Covid symptoms. If the attendee has a raised temperature or is experiencing any symptoms, a Covid test will be administered. A positive test will result in the attendee being sent home and refunded. Anyone with symptoms but not testing positive will be asked to mask until the symptoms have resolved.

  • All-S Retreats include breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all participants including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

    Meals are built into the cost of the retreat, and take place in a buffet-style with shared tables. Options are available if one prefers to provide their own meals.

  • Pricing varies by retreat, but can range from $250-400 depending on the number of days one attends.

    Scholarships usually cover 50% of the price of the retreat and are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Full scholarships can be obtained for special circumstances.

  • The All-S Retreat is put on exclusively by unpaid volunteers. One of the ways this is made possible is through a rich tradition of volunteering and service roles. Some examples include:

    Retreat Chairs

    Spreading the word

    Party planning

    Games and activity chair

    Food liaison

    Clean up crew

    Coffee Czar

    And more

    If you would like to volunteer to provide service, please let us know on your registration form, or email us at chicago.s.retreat@gmail.com

Have a question that wasn’t answered here? Don’t hesitate to email us at chicago.s.retreat@gmail.com

Registration Open Now!

All-S Retreat Preamble

This retreat is a gathering of individuals who are on a recovery journey as a result of sexual and romantic addictions. We each have chosen programs of recovery which embrace the twelve steps and twelve traditions to help us achieve our sobriety. We also welcome our fellows’ supportive partners, encourage their contributions, and value their perspective.

Those attending this retreat may identify as members of different recovery fellowships, but the All-S Retreat is not allied or associated with any individual fellowship. The diversity of each fellowship is honored while its members share experience, strength, and hope together to find solutions on our recovery journeys and strengthen our serenity.

We share honest thoughts and feelings to foster a deeper relationship with our Higher Power and with one another. Together we create an atmosphere for spiritual development to help in the journey of recovery from sexual and romantic addictions.

We focus on our similarities rather than our differences. No matter our identity, background, religion, or philosophy, we are united in our experience of the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions as a program of spiritual development. Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends upon our unity. Our primary purpose is to carry the message of recovery to those who still suffer.