When: April 19-22, 2024

Where: Epworth By The Sea - St. Simons Island, GA

Registration Deadline: March 19, 2024

C.O.P.S. Co-Workers for Couples Retreat is planned for surviving co-workers, active or retired, and their spouse/domestic partner * (21 years or older) of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, as determined by C.O.P.S. criteria. Other relatives and friends are not eligible to attend.

*Domestic Partner is defined as a long term committed legal or interpersonal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a common domestic life (i.e., not just a boy/girlfriend).

What to Expect

C.O.P.S. Co-Workers for Couples Retreat will give couples the opportunity to discuss their grief in a comfortable setting and gain a better understanding of what each person is going through. Many times, surviving co-workers have a difficult time explaining to their friends and family what they are feeling after the loss of their co-worker. Additionally, significant others fear that something may happen to their loved one and may have difficulty knowing how to support them. 

While at Co-Workers for Couples Retreat you will meet licensed mental health professionals who will facilitate various sessions and optional couples or one-on-one counseling that will address your needs and provide tools to support you in your relationship and everyday life. You will also get to participate in fun and challenging couple-based activities. Attending Co-Workers for Couples Retreat will give you the opportunity to strengthen your relationship while also providing a support system made up of peers who understand.

Attendance at this retreat is strictly confidential, and participant names are not shared.

What is the cost of the retreat?

Your only expense is your travel to and from the Jacksonville, FL Airport or to and from Epworth By The Sea if you are driving. All lodging, meals and activities are provided at no cost. If you fail to cancel your attendance and you do not show up for the program, you could be subject to a participation fee for the following year’s program.

Session Examples

• Meaningful Conversations with My Partner
• Leaving the Badge at Work
• Anger - Name It to Tame It
• How to Overcome the “What Ifs”
• Dealing With Fear That Has Crept Into My Marriage

Travel Information

If you are flying: You should plan to arrive at Jacksonville Airport (JAX) between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 19. You will be met by a C.O.P.S. representative at the airport and transported to the Epworth By The Sea by bus. You can make your return flight out of Jacksonville Airport on Monday, April 22 after 12:00 p.m.

If you are driving: You will need to arrive at the Epworth By The Sea by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 19, and stay through breakfast on Monday, April 22. Meals and activities are planned; no late arrivals or early departures please.

Limited travel assistance may be available. Contact your local C.O.P.S. Chapter or contact the C.O.P.S. National Office for additional information.