
EMPOWERWA
leadership retreat
March 7 - 9th, 2025 at The Whidbey Institute

Unlock Your Potential
change your world
This transformational experience is designed for youth in grades 9-11 and their school staff sponsors (teachers, counselors, administrators, etc). Held in the serene backdrop of the Whidbey Institute, EmpowerWA is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to gather with your peers from around the region to level-up in leadership and expand your sense of what is possible for yourself and your school.
With a team of devoted facilitators and mentors to support you, this journey will invite you to step into your full potential as a leader across all aspects of your life: on campus, across your social groups, with your family, and in your community. With your commitment and open-hearted participation, this retreat provides the tools, connections, and confidence to make lasting, positive change.
EmpowerWA helps students and educators:
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Create community and belonging for yourself and others
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Claim your core values and learn to lead authentically
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Recognize your innate gifts and your growth areas in leadership
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Cultivate empathy and understand the impacts of your choices
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Form a vision that motivates you to act with a sense of purpose
Our activities are rooted in experiential learning, designed to provide a healthy and appropriate challenge to you intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Through workshops, activities, and facilitated conversations, you’ll gain personal insights and deepen your understanding of what it means to lead with purpose.
To maximize the impact of the experience and support efforts after the event, we encourage interested school staff to participate in a cohort of 4-10 from their school or community, with a minimum one staff for every 5 students. Individual students and educators with past experience in our events may participate on a case-by-case basis. Group discounts and limited scholarships are available.
FAQ
frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to participate?
Yes. Costs to produce this event are significant, and thanks to our sponsors, we've been able to reduce our fees and provide scholarships. Fees for individual participants start at $750, and group discounts are available.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
Youth and adult participants will generally be placed in shared accommodations with same-gender peers, with some exception. Room assignments will be determined after enrollment ends.
How about transport, lodging and food?
Participants will need to provide their own transport to and from the Whidbey Institute, arriving early afternoon Friday and departing early afternoon Sunday. Lodging, materials and meals are provided.
Who are the staff?
EmpowerWA is hosted by One Village and a highly experienced staff team of trainers, facilitators and mentors who have dedicated their lives to serving youth and educators. We'll send key staff introductions during the registration process.
CLIENTS
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