What are Willow’s Gay and Bi Men’s Gatherings all About?

Ravi makes a welcome dinner and leads a workshop on Indian cooking.

Tom leads a morning yoga class.

Last summer and winter, we had the privilege of hosting several contributory retreats for gay and bi men that were nothing short of sensational. In just a few weekend days, retreat participants evolved from complete strangers to an intimately bonded community of co-travelers.

With beautiful Southern Vermont as our backdrop, our cohorts share meals, experience Tom’s soul-nourishing yoga class, practice meditation, hike, go on refreshing swims at Rock River Preservation, and end with unforgettable evenings by the firepit.

During a retreat, the outside world pauses, allowing our inner journey to take center stage. Retreats are dedicated time to explore the good, the joyful, and the profoundly creative person within us. Willow’s gay and bi men’s gatherings are a special case — a contributory retreat model.

What is a Contributory Retreat?

We organize our gay and bi-men’s gatherings to maximize the fun—the program varies from gathering to gathering. On these weekends, we invite participants to offer mini-workshops to each other. Participants have led others in a figure-drawing class, massage workshop, a woodland walking meditation, a storytelling workshop, and other skills-based activities. Daily yoga, swimming, and other activities are clothing optional.

On Saturday night, we invite gay and bi men from around southern Vermont to join us for a grand pot-luck dinner. These dinners have been absolutely fabulous. There’s nothing like a gathering of 40-50 men who value strong community and delicious food.

Saying goodbye after such a profound experience is like ripping off a Band-Aid on a freshly waxed chest — it stings. But we can get back together often — we hold these gatherings several times a year, reuniting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones.

From a figure drawing class

Past participants said…

I had the most amazing experience at Willow. The serene environment provided the perfect escape. The homemade Indian cuisine from Ravi was a delightful treat for the taste buds, and the morning yoga sessions by Tom set the tone for a peaceful and rejuvenating day ahead.

-Carson

“The grateful heart makes the heart great” said Rabbi Heschel. I’m grateful to you all and for you all. What a blessing to have such light mid-winter.

-Joel

Thanks to everyone for a fabulous time, for being so open and sweet. Such a special weekend!

-Jade

Let's continue the journey together!

Swimming at Rock River is magical

The Saturday evening potluck attracts exceptional food talent from Southern Vermont’s gay and bi men’s community.

Down time in one of Willow’s comfortable rooms

The last day at a recent gathering