Spring Retreat 2018 Recap

From April 4th to 6th, our cohort had the chance to reunite all together at our spring retreat. We cannot believe that spring is here already and were excited for some much needed VISTA bonding, project sharing, professional development, and other trainings and presentations.

Our three days together began with an empowering activity where VISTAs were able to brag a bit (Boast & Toast Activity) about their successes this year in their projects, in which were each followed by a round of applause and excited encouragement from their fellow VISTAs.

We then shifted gears to looking internally at our paths and identities that brought us here and what that means for our projects while looking ahead in our futures.

We were so lucky to have our Leadership Track: Katlyn, Danelle, Jamie, and Gina lend a helping hand during this retreat. They gave world cafe style presentations, planned various optional activities like trivia and Twin Day, held a diversity discussion, assisted in engagement and even planned LinkedIn headshot sessions with our cohort’s very own photographer, Desiree.

Day 2 was filled with vast information in action. We were happy to welcome our Executive Director, Char Gray, for a presentation, discussion, and activity on Telling Your Impact Story. We got the chance to talk about sustainability and the framework for some real plans and how VISTAs can leave their legacy with our VISTA Leader, Erin. Then, we were inspired by our Alumni Guest Speaker, Jeremy Flick, who provided us with some great research-based psychology and thought-provoking discussions on self-care, work-life balance, and defining success which was a great transition into our PACC*VISTA Alum, “Life After VISTA” panel, to hear from the experts.

Finally, our last day spent together was with our ever-so cherished career coach, Linda Arra, who taught us to effectively share our story in cover letters and interviews and authentically articulate our experiences as VISTAs in continuation of our webinars on character strengths, networking, and LinkedIn.

We were able to end our time together with what we liked to call an “Energy Exchange” to share positives vibes as we take on the end of our service years! We got this!

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