__You understand what a retreat is, as well as its purpose. __You know why to organize a retreat: Eliminate outside distractions Build enthusiasm and commitment among your staff Cultivate a casual, unpressured mood Create a sense of shared experience and bonding Set aside uninterrupted time for problem solving Allow time to step back and re-examine goals and objectives __You know when (and when not) to organize a retreat. __You've considered where to hold your retreat. Four months ahead of time __Set goals for your retreat. __Start looking into facilities. __Decide who will attend. __Start looking into possible presenters/consultants. Three months ahead of time: __Decide how long the retreat will be. __Pick a date (or dates) for your retreat. __Assign planning duties. __Come up with a rough schedule. __Reserve a site. Two months ahead of time: __Finalize the retreat schedule. __Find out about your consultant's needs, if applicable. __Send out invitations and notices, if applicable. __Make any final decisions about accessibility. __Make transportation arrangements, if applicable. One to two weeks ahead of time: __Check with retreat site to finalize arrangements __Round up equipment/supplies __Make final meal arrangements, if applicable. __Do any needed photocopying. One day before: __Go over agenda a final time. __Check with committee heads, if applicable. __Relax! After the retreat: __Evaluate the retreat. Were objectives met? How were the facilities? Which parts of the retreat were the most useful in advancing your organization's cause? Which parts were the least useful? Was your time balanced well? __Clean up afterwards. __Reserve facilities for next retreat, if applicable.
