More Than a Retreat—Support Throughout Your Reclamation Path
Since 2019, Hiraeth Hope & Healing, Inc. (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) has recognized that every individual’s journey is unique. We provide unwavering support before, during, and after your renewal experience. You’re not just attending a retreat—you’re joining a lifelong circle of transformation.
🦔 Meet Helix, Our Hedgehog Guide
Helix reminds us that growth is a gentle journey—sometimes slow, sometimes spiky, but always meaningful. They offer quiet strength and steady companionship as you navigate your path.
Look for Helix’s monthly tip in our newsletter—a small nugget of wisdom to inspire and support you. For those who want more, each month Helix shares a deeper reflection, journal prompt, and grounding ritual.
Helix’s Corner – September Reflection
🌿 This month, transition isn’t about leaving everything behind—it’s about noticing what truly sustains you. Carry forward what nourishes your growth while gently releasing what no longer serves you.
Read September’s Full Reflection →
Since 2019, our retreats have helped reclaim lives. Each one is unique—because no two retreats are ever the same.
For those separated from their origins, whose truths were hidden or taken—we see you, we honor your story, and we walk with you on the journey of reclamation. All genders welcome.
Looking For Something in Particular?
Our site is filled with reflections, retreat details, and grounding resources. Let your curiosity guide you—
Call For 2026 Facilitators
Are you ready to hold space, lead with intention, and share your wisdom with our community? We’re currently accepting session proposals for our 2026 retreats. Whether you’re a seasoned trauma-informed professional or someone with lived experience and a commitment to reclaiming strength, we welcome your voice.
Visit our Facilitate a Retreat page to learn more and submit your proposal. Help us co-create the spaces you once needed—or still need.
Support Beyond Retreats
8 Facebook Groups
Connect with others in real time through active, supportive communities.
Zoom Support
Join peer-to-peer and trauma-informed professional groups that understand your journey.
Online Workshops
Experience healing through writing, mindfulness, and creative practices.
Recommended Reading
Explore books on Adopted Folks, DNA Discoveries, and Transformative Growth.
Genetic Genealogists
Receive free DNA search support from trusted volunteers.
Documentary Viewings
Deepen understanding through shared films and discussions.
Blog
Discover stories, reflections, and inspiration for your path.
Scholarships & Military Discounts
Access support with scholarships and service-member discounts.
This is more than a retreat—it’s a movement, a community, and a brave return to yourself.
“Allies & Intersections”
We bring together Adopted Folks, DCPs, and NPEs—three communities with unique journeys that often intersect.
This Venn diagram, inspired by Cassandra Adams, DCP—a powerful advocate whose life has been shaped by hidden truths about origin—illustrates why collective restoration matters so deeply to us.
Why these intersections matter:
Learn from one another: Gain insight and perspective from diverse experiences.
Build solidarity: Find common ground in shared challenges and truths.
Amplify reclamation: Support one another in ways that transcend labels or categories.
Together, these communities form a stronger, more connected environment, where growth is shared, and no one walks their path alone.
Our Story
Hiraeth Hope & Healing, Inc. was founded with a deep commitment to supporting Adopted Folks, DCPs, LDAs, and NPEs as they reclaim their identities and lives. The journey began in March 2019 when the founders met serendipitously at an NPE gathering in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There, they immediately recognized the pressing need for more in-person spaces where individuals could connect, share their experiences, and find strength together. Read more about Erin & Cindy.
Moved by this realization, they began planning their first retreat without hesitation. Just months later, in October 2019, Hiraeth Hope & Healing hosted the inaugural Jersey Shore Roundtable Retreat—an event that exceeded all expectations and confirmed the profound impact of gathering in community.
How It All Began…
Since that first retreat, Hiraeth Hope & Healing has continued to grow, offering transformative spaces where individuals can find solace, understanding, and empowerment. With each retreat, the mission remains the same: to create a haven for those seeking connection, restoration, and a sense of belonging.
And the Journey Continues…
Our Mission
Hiraeth Hope & Healing, Inc. is dedicated to providing a brave and transformative space for those impacted by hidden truths, family separation, and origin loss. Through immersive retreats and compassionate community support, we foster empowerment, restoration, and deep connection—helping each person reclaim their identity and truth.
Rooted in solidarity and care, our mission is to create a path toward restoration and justice for those living with the lifelong impact of systems that sever people from their beginnings.
Togetherness Heals: Retreats Across the Country
“We don’t heal in isolation, but in community.” —S. Kelley Harrell
Where We've Held Space — and Where We're Headed
See Our Retreats in Action
See the transformative experiences of our community and the reclamation that takes place.
A heartfelt glimpse into our retreats, lovingly captured by attendee Lori Tirado.
Resilience Retreats: A Journey of Connection & Transformation
Escape, Restore, and Rejuvenate: A 5-Day Retreat in Community
Step away from the demands of daily life and immerse yourself in a transformative retreat, held three times a year in April, July, & October. Starting in 2026, our retreats will include an enriching Sunday session to extend your journey of connection and transformation, offering even more time for reflection, growth, and community. Designed for deep reflection and renewal, our retreats take place in private, luxurious residences, providing a sanctuary for restoration. With a maximum of 30 attendees, this intimate gathering offers the opportunity to build meaningful connections in a supportive environment.
Our carefully curated facilitators—experts in various restorative modalities—lead transformative sessions tailored to meet you wherever you are on your journey. From mindfulness practices to therapeutic workshops, each day presents opportunities for personal breakthroughs and collective support.
Enjoy eight thoughtfully prepared meals that foster connection and community, alongside seven to eight rotating sessions focused on growth and resilience. With ample time for relaxation and the chance to build lasting relationships, our retreats nurture the body, mind, and spirit.
Since 2019, each retreat has been a unique journey of restoration, connection, and growth—because no two retreats are ever the same.
Saturday Shenanigans
Saturday evenings are all about fun and laughter! We come together for “Eve’s Game” (a tribute to Eve Sturges), blending elements of Left, Center, Right, 20 Questions, and the excitement of a Las Vegas-style casino night. If you're eager for in-person connections but short on time, you can register for Saturday Shenanigans as a standalone experience.
Additional Highlights
Prizes, raffles, and live auctions throughout the retreat.
Exclusive SWAG bags filled with thoughtful gifts.
A warm and welcoming atmosphere where you’re embraced and understood—even before you’ve met.
Join us and experience the power of community restoration, where shared stories and deep connections help renew the spirit.
Optional Enhancements
As our retreat comes to a close, we honor the journey with dedicated time for decompression and self-care. Before departing, attendees are invited to immerse themselves in Relax, Renew, Refresh—a serene experience designed to restore balance and help process the weekend’s profound connections.
For an additional cost, you may book sessions with a massage therapist, psychic medium, Reiki practitioner, and other holistic providers who offer gentle support as you transition back into daily life (offerings may vary). This is your time to unwind, reflect, and integrate the emotions and insights gained throughout the retreat.
You may choose to watch a movie together, enjoy the house amenities, or simply relax in good company. However you spend this time, it’s an opportunity to nurture yourself and embrace peace before heading home.
Fall Retreat Details
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$449 per person + lodging (includes meals from Thursday dinner through Monday breakfast)
Spring Retreat Details
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$449 per person + lodging (includes meals from Thursday dinner through Monday breakfast)
Summer Retreat Details
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$449 per person + lodging (includes meals from Thursday dinner through Monday breakfast)
Please be sure to join our PRIVATE Facebook group for more insider information.
NEW! We’re excited to offer Klarna as a flexible payment option for our retreats! You can now split your payment cost into interest-free payments, made every 2 weeks.
As part of our commitment to accessibility and support, we are pleased to offer a 10% discount on our retreats for active-duty and retired military personnel. To receive the discount, please provide proof of military service (e.g., military ID, DD-214, or other verification) before registration. This discount cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
Our Impact: Transforming Lives, One Retreat at a Time
Organized 20+ transformative retreats, each a unique journey
Awarded over $8,000 in scholarships
Supported 500+ individuals on their path of reclamation
Each retreat is more than an event—it’s a transformative experience that empowers participants to reconnect with themselves, their families, and their community. Since 2019, every retreat has been a unique journey of restoration, connection, and growth—because no two retreats are ever the same.
Help Make Reclamation Possible. Your Support Changes Lives.
Create lasting impact. Your monthly support helps provide scholarships and restoration opportunities for those in need.
Need financial assistance? We’re here to help.
In Their Own Words
Hear from those whose lives have been changed through our retreats.
“There were great workshops by skilled licensed facilitators, fun activities and games, and down-time to just chat. Friendly and supportive group. What a transformative experience. Loved it!” -Michelle, DE
“There were great workshops by skilled licensed facilitators, fun activities and games, and down-time to just chat. Friendly and supportive group. What a transformative experience. Loved it!” -Michelle, DE
“I highly recommend these retreats for all NPEs, DC, LDAs, and Adoptees.” -Heather, CT
“I highly recommend these retreats for all NPEs, DC, LDAs, and Adoptees.” -Heather, CT
“This group has been life-changing in the most positive way.” -Peg, VA
“This group has been life-changing in the most positive way.” -Peg, VA
“There is no excuse not to attend – for yourself, or for others. It was for me and will be for you a very rewarding experience.” -Dennis, NJ
“There is no excuse not to attend – for yourself, or for others. It was for me and will be for you a very rewarding experience.” -Dennis, NJ
“Incredible experience of togetherness with people who get it.” -Cassandra, NJ
“Incredible experience of togetherness with people who get it.” -Cassandra, NJ
Support Beyond Our Retreats
Find connection, community, and support in a space made for you
Peer-to-Peer Zoom Support - A brave and supportive space led by and for those impacted by separation, loss of origins, or DNA revelations. These Zoom sessions offer a real-time opportunity to connect with others who truly understand—sharing lived experiences, offering compassion without judgment, and reminding each of us: you are not alone in your reclamation.
Online Workshops: Therapeutic Processing through Writing, Mindfulness Healing - We offer a variety of trauma-informed workshops designed to support your transformative journey through creative expression, therapeutic writing, and mindfulness practices. Each workshop invites you to reconnect with your body, mind, and spirit in a gentle, supportive space tailored to your needs.
Our sessions include guided journaling prompts, somatic breathwork, expressive art, and nature-based rituals—all aimed at helping you reclaim your authentic self and nurture your inner strength. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your openness and willingness to engage in the process.
Helix’s Corner – A monthly offering for deeper reflection, Helix’s Corner includes:
– A journaling prompt rooted in identity, grief, and reclamation
– A gentle grounding ritual to soothe the nervous system
– A short reflection or “prickly-wisdom” from Helix, our hedgehog guide
It’s a soft space for slowing down and tending to the inner work—on your time, in your way.
Resources - We curate and update a diverse collection of supportive tools tailored for those impacted by family separation. This includes trusted Facebook support groups where you can connect and share with others who truly understand, informative websites offering guidance and advocacy, and thoughtfully selected podcasts that explore themes of identity, healing, and community. These resources are here to empower you and help you feel less alone on your journey.
Recommended Reading: Adoption, DCP/LDA/NPE/DNA Surprise, Transformative Growth - Our bookshelf features books that speak to identity loss, family separation, complex grief, and the journey toward truth. These are powerful works by survivors, researchers, and truth-tellers who illuminate the path many of us walk.
Search Angels - Thinking about finding your biological family? We connect you with experienced, compassionate volunteer “Search Angels” who guide you through the emotional and practical steps of searching and reunion. Our Search Angels understand the complexities of this journey and offer unwavering support every step of the way.
We also offer a DNA Kit Donation Program providing free DNA testing kits to those who need them, removing financial barriers and helping you take the first step toward uncovering your roots with confidence and care.
Documentary Viewings - We host virtual screenings of select documentaries that shine light on family separation and the lifelong impacts of identity erasure. These events often include post-viewing community discussions to process what’s surfaced together.
Blog - Our blog is a space for storytelling, insight, and advocacy. You’ll find essays, community spotlights, healing reflections, and commentary on current events—all through the lens of truth, justice, and personal reclamation.
💡 Did You Know?
Upon learning their donor-conceived status, about 85% reported a shift in self-concept, ~50% sought counseling, and many struggled with mistrust and genetic curiosity.
psychologytoday.com (2024)
Reclaim Today. Transform Tomorrow.
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Each month, we share one powerful truth rooted in restoration, along with real stories, practical tips, recommended reads, and the latest on events and retreats—all thoughtfully curated to support your journey.