Area veterans invited to weekend retreat at Jensen Woods Friday through Saturday

TIMEWELL, Ill. — Veterans from all branches of service are invited to a weekend of camaraderie, fun and support at the Veterans Retreat being held Friday through Sunday, May 16-18, at Jensen Woods Camp in Timewell.

This retreat is designed to honor those who have served and offer a space for connection, learning and healing. The weekend begins at 5 p.m. on Friday and concludes at noon on Sunday.

Participants will enjoy a variety of recreational and reflective experiences, including a creek hike and geode hunting, hayrack ride and bonfire, outhouse demolition and a hike to a Native American burial mound. The weekend includes fishing, team-building activities and a non-denominational service held in the scenic camp chapel.

The retreat will feature informational talks on PTSD and veteran health topics from a team of local healthcare professionals and veterans:

• Marianne McClain, neuropsychologist, Quincy Medical Group
• Trey Sexton, Transitions of Western Illinois
• Cheryl Krus, Quincy Medical Group
• Melissa Hildebrand, Quincy Medical Group
• Brian Goodwin, Quincy Medical Group

In a press release, Goodwin said, “This retreat is about more than just getting away. It’s about giving veterans a safe space to reconnect with themselves and others who understand their journey.”

The cost of the weekend is $25 per person. Scholarships are available. Veterans can request any accommodation they may need including mobility access, medication support or considerations for PTSD triggers.

To register or for questions, contact Kathy Crozier at 309-507-0062 or Goodwin at 217-779-1759.

The retreat is sponsored by Quincy Medical Group, Transitions of Western Illinois, Together with Tri-State Veterans and the Adams County Veteran’s Assistance Coalition.