The weekend of April 18–19 offered a strong snapshot of what Peace Learning Center is all about: helping people feel more connected to place, to others, and to themselves.
Saturday’s Summer Camp Preview Party welcomed families to our Eagle Creek Park campus for a relaxed, hands-on introduction to the PLC summer experience. Despite gray skies and less-than-ideal weather, about 14 kids and their families came out to explore, ask questions, and get a feel for what camp will be like. For some, it was a first look at PLC. For others already registered, it was a chance to ease any first-day nerves.
Families walked the grounds, checked out the spaces where activities will happen, and got a better sense of how PLC camps blend nature, creativity, and personal growth. It wasn’t about a formal presentation—it was about letting kids experience the environment and giving parents the chance to picture their child there. For those still deciding, it also served as a timely reminder that a few camp spots are still available.
Then on Sunday, the tone shifted from exploration to reflection.
The Personal Peace Practices Spring Retreat invited participants to slow down and step away from the usual pace of life. With brisk spring air and moments of sunlight breaking through, the group spent part of the afternoon on a one-hour hike through Eagle Creek Park, searching for wildflowers and creating space for quiet conversation and personal reflection.
Led by facilitator Heidi Fledderjohn, the retreat focused on simple, approachable practices—movement, observation, creativity, and connection. No pressure, no complexity. Just intentional time to reset. Participants moved, walked, noticed, and reconnected, both with nature and with thems
elves.
It was a reminder that wellness doesn’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful. Sometimes it’s as straightforward as stepping outside, paying attention, and giving yourself permission to pause.
Together, the two events captured both sides of PLC’s mission in action. One day focused on preparing kids for a summer of growth and confidence. The next created space for adults to recharge and reflect.
If you missed the Personal Peace Practices retreat, the next opportunity will come in July.
And if summer camp is still on your radar, there’s still time to register here: https://peacelearningcenter.org/summers-at-plc/.
