FAQs

Eligibility

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Which military-connected families are eligible to participate in One-Day Family Retreats?

Our One-Day experiences are tailored to unique military family audiences. Please read the retreat location description thoroughly for information about the audience for each experience.
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My family attended an Operation Purple Family Retreat in the past; can I apply again this year?

There is no limit to the number of times you can attend; however, first priority in selection of attendees is given to families who have never attended Operation Purple programs before.
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DO I HAVE TO PAY ANYTHING TO ATTEND AN OPERATION PURPLE FAMILY RETREAT?

There is a $50.00 Hold My Spot Deposit to secure your family’s space. This deposit is refundable unless you would like to donate it for future Operation Purple programs. Food is provided to families at no cost. There are no activity fees or other expenses. Families are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program.
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Are Retreats open to families with infants and toddlers?

There is no daycare provided for the one day retreats. But if families choose to bring infants and toddlers they are welcome to do so but the parents are responsible for them.
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Our service member is unable to join us. Can we attend the retreat without him/her?

Our programs prioritize building strong relationships across the whole military family unit, so we encourage families to apply to attend a retreat when the service member or veteran is available to join. NOTE: At our Alaska experience we welcome families to apply regardless of whether the service member will be able to attend.

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I'm retired, can my family still attend?

If the service member(s) in the family meet(s) the criteria of post-9/11 wounded, ill, or injured veteran, your family is eligible to participate in One-Day programs regardless of your retirement or deactivation date. If the family does not include a wounded, ill or injured service member, the retirement date must fall within 18 months or less from the date of the retreat.
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DOES MY SERVICE MEMBER NEED A FORMAL DIAGNOSIS FOR A PROGRAM FOCUSED ON SUPPORTING FAMILIES OF THE WOUNDED, ILL, OR INJURED?

We are here to support your family no matter where it is on its military journey. If you are dealing with a wound, ill, or injury, either visible or invisible, we want you to join us for our programs. 

Operation Purple Family Retreat One-Day FAQs

Accessibility

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What should I bring to Operation Purple Family Retreats?

Accepted families will receive a suggested list of items that they should plan to pack.
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Is there medical staff available?

Medical staff are not provided at our retreats.
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Is transportation provided?

Transportation to and from the Operation Purple program site is the responsibility of the selected family.

What to Expect

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What types of activities are offered?

Each Operation Purple program site has a different focus and activities vary from site to site. Highly specialized field science educators will guide families through various activities such as nature hikes, canoeing, campfires, beach exploration, arts and crafts, and challenge activities. Most of your time will be spent outdoors (weather permitting) so families should come prepared to spend lots of time enjoying the scenery.
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What type of food can we expect?

Families will receive typical cookout food such as hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, chips, and all the fixings. Vegetarian options will also be provided. If you have specific dietary needs, please include this on your application.