• IS THERE CELL RECEPTION AND WIFI AT CISPUS?

Nope - You will be enjoying an unplugged weekend! A landline is available in the main office for emergencies: 360-497-7131. Cispus Learning Center office is staffed Monday - Saturday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., and they will pass on any messages to you.

• HOW DO WE OBTAIN CEU CERTIFICATES?

CEU certificates will be provided to attendees at the end of the conference: 13 CEUs for your general conference attendance and 4 Ethics-specific CEUs if you also participate in the pre-conference Ethics workshop.

• WHAT ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

It is camp! Your accommodations are shared large cabins laid out in a dormitory style. Each rustic cabin is fitted out with bunk-style beds, bathrooms and showers. You will need to bring your own sleeping bags or other bedding and pillows, as well as your own toiletries and towels. For any sleep issues, please bring ear plugs or other noise-reduction items. If you have fond memories of summer camp, you will love the accommodations!

An alternative to group cabins is Tent Camping or RV-Camping-without-hookup, located across the road from main Cispus meeting areas. There are grassy spaces and a bathroom nearby, with your shower access in the cabins. (Camping costs the same as your regular conference rate.) When you check in, ask for directions to the camping area.

• ARE THERE OUTLETS IN THE CABINS FOR MACHINES, SUCH AS C-PAP?

Yes, the cabins have several regular outlets in each area, but not necessarily convenient to all bunks. Get there early to claim a bunk near an outlet or contact us early to make arrangements.

• CAN WE SAVE BUNK SPACE FOR OUR GROUP?

Bunking is communal style, and “campers” wanting to bunk with their friends, colleagues and companions can simply stake out a group of bunks in the overall space. If your “buddy” isn’t with you at check in, feel welcome to leave a note holding space for them on a nearby bunk. Counselor Camp is a supportive environment, and there is plenty of space!

• IS IT POSSIBLE TO UPGRADE TO MORE PRIVATE ACCOMMODATIONS?

Yes - you can rent trailers from Cispus for $45/night for two people, plus $5 per extra person. Contact Sue at sharples@cispus.org to reserve and pay. The trailer amenities include: running water, toilets and showers; electricity and outlets; bunk beds, couches and chairs; closets with hangers; a kitchenette and table. You will need to bring your own toiletries, towels, pillows and bedding. It is both comfortable and rustic!

• WHAT ARE THE WORKSHOP SETTINGS? AND WILL WE HAVE TIME OUTDOORS?

Workshops will take place in small indoor classrooms, unless the presenter chooses to spend time outdoors. The indoor temperature is moderate, but please dress in layers so that you can regulate your own comfort. Please take advantage of the beautiful location! We are fortunate to retreat to the wilderness and spend time together in the fresh fall mountain air. Outdoor activities will be available throughout the weekend, including an evening campfire and morning hikes on local trails. Come prepared to enjoy some time outside with friends.

• WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SUPPORT MY FOOD NEEDS?

Cispus Learning Center will do their best to accommodate food allergies and preferences noted in your registration. As one Planning Committee member observed, please remember that this is not a “healthy-food camp”. With a focus on ensuring that conference pricing is accessible, food costs are a key consideration. You may want to bring any additional food items that will help your stay be comfortable for you.

• WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
  • Sleeping bag and pillow (or sheets and blankets)
  • Towel and toiletries (including hand soap)
  • Warm layers, rain jacket and/or umbrella
  • Hiking boots or other sturdy/water-resistant shoes
  • Water bottle, notebook and pen
  • Supplementary food if you are vegan, gluten intolerant, or have multiple restrictions or unique needs
  • Camera, flashlight, insect repellent (Optional)
  • Eye pillow mask and/or ear plugs (Optional)
  • Outdoor chair (optional)
  • Item to donate to our Silent Auction (if you choose)
  • Cash or checks for the Silent Auction and Recovery Store if in attendance;
    plus a massage therapist will offer massage CASH ONLY

• ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE?

Yes! Financial Aid is available to support access to Counselor Camp. See options at registration.

• CAN I ATTEND IF I’M NOT A COUNSELOR?

If you are working with youth/young adults, you have found a home. -This conference/retreat is definitely appropriate for you. Seminars and activities are geared toward prevention, intervention, counseling, treatment and youth engagement. You do not need to be at any particular level of training to attend. It’s a great opportunity to connect with people in multiple fields, learn and share best practices, and nourish yourself.

Refunds granted up until the closing of ticket sales!

General Schedule

Open to Close Daily: Onsite Massage Therapy, Art & Crafts, Games, Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate and Snacks 

Friday, September 20
1 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. | Ethics Workshop
3 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Registration in the Activities Room, Getting Settled In.
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Dinner
6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Meet n Greet/Opening Activity
7 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Opening Ceremonies
7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Keynote

Tom Dull Memorial Silent Auction

Saturday, September 21
7 a.m. - 8 a.m. | Nature Hike/12 Step Meeting/Yoga
8 a.m. - 9 a.m. | Breakfast
9 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. | Workshop Sessions 1
10:45 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Workshop Sessions 2
12 p.m. - 1 p.m. | Lunch
1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Keynote Session
2:45 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Session 3
4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. | Self-care sessions
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Dinner
7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | Gratitude Circle
8:30 p.m. | Fireside Council/Campfire/S’mores/Singing and Drumming/Games

Sunday, September 22
7 a.m. - 8 a.m. | Nature Hike/12 Step Meeting/Massage/Yoga
8 a.m. - 9 a.m. | Breakfast
9 a.m. - 11 a.m. | Workshop Session 4
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Closing Ceremony in The Auditorium

Certificates handed out at the end of the conference