SOAR: Stepping into Adulthood with Intention Not Just Drifting Through | June 25 - 28, 2026
An overnight retreat for recent high school graduates preparing for what’s next.
Through facilitated conversations, shared adventure, and everyday life skills like team-based cooking, SOAR helps young men step into greater responsibility and self-awareness.
Participants leave with practical tools, meaningful relationships, and the confidence to take their next steps with intention.
The SOAR Experience | June 25 - 28, 2026 | Massanutten, VA
Adventure & Shared Challenge
Adventure at SOAR is about shared experience, not extreme challenge. We spend time hiking scenic trails, tubing on calm water, swimming, and exploring together. Activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a range of comfort levels. For some, being outdoors is energizing; for others, it’s a stretch. Either way, the goal is to create manageable challenges, build camaraderie, and experience the confidence that comes from trying something new in a supportive environment.
Cooking
Participants are divided into cooking teams and take ownership of planning and preparing at least two meals during the weekend. For many, it’s their first time cooking beyond the basics. What starts as uncertainty often turns into one of the most enjoyable parts of the retreat—laughter in the kitchen, teamwork, and the satisfaction of serving a meal they created together. Beyond the fun, it builds independence, collaboration, and real-life competence that carries into adulthood.
Investment
The cost of the SOAR Retreat is $2,000, which includes lodging, all meals, activities, and the full retreat experience in a structured therapeutic environment. The weekend is led by four mental health professionals and includes both small group work and individual one-on-one connection with a counselor. Participants receive focused attention, guided support, and practical skill-building within a carefully designed setting. This is more than a getaway—it is an intentional investment in growth, direction, and momentum during a pivotal season of life.
“I was really nervous about leaving high school and starting college. High school was hard for me, and I wasn’t sure how I’d handle having less structure or how I’d make new friends. SOAR helped more than I expected. I met other guys who were feeling the same things, and that made it easier to open up. By the end of the weekend, I felt more confident that I could handle what’s next.” – 2023 SOAR Participant
The Conversations that Matter
Throughout the weekend, we explore questions like:
Who am I becoming?
What do I want my life to stand for?
What is blocking me?
Where do fear and insecurity show up?
How do I build real connection instead of isolation?
These are not lectures.
They are structured, facilitated conversations.
Honest. Respectful. Direct.
“I didn’t really have a clear plan after high school, and that felt overwhelming. At SOAR, I met other guys who were in the same place. It helped to have some time to think about my next steps.” – 2025 SOAR Participant
One-on-One Support & Space to Breathe
Each participant has the opportunity for one-on-one conversation with a mental health professional during the retreat, creating space for personal reflection, individualized support, and deeper exploration of what feels most important. Growth also requires room to breathe, so the schedule intentionally includes unstructured time to rest, explore, and continue conversations organically. Not every moment is programmed. The balance of guided support and open space allows insight to settle and confidence to grow in a way that feels steady and authentic.
Contact Us About SOAR
You can use the form below or call us at 703-691-0036.
Retreat Setting: Massanutten Resort | 2 hours from Fairfax, VA
The retreat is held at a private lodge in Massanutten Resort, offering mountain views, privacy, and comfortable gathering spaces. In addition to outdoor access, the lodge features a 17-seat private theater, hot tub, full game room, large kitchen, and outdoor grill. These spaces allow for connection, laughter, and downtime alongside the deeper work of the weekend. The environment is welcoming and well-supervised, giving participants room to relax while remaining fully supported.
Who is right for SOAR?
Young men navigating transition—finishing high school, in college, recently graduated, or uncertain about what comes next. Those who may feel stuck or disconnected but are open to challenge, reflection, and growth within a structured and supportive environment.
Why Attend SOAR?
Because drifting through this stage of life often leads to more confusion or isolation. SOAR creates intentional space to step back, gain perspective, build practical skills, and engage in honest conversations about identity, responsibility, and connection.
What will I Gain?
Participants leave with greater clarity about who they are and where they want to head next. They gain practical life skills, stronger peer connection, and the confidence that comes from taking responsibility and building real momentum forward.
More Resources & Activities in Northern VA
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