Transformational investment challenges community to join in addressing growing mental health needs across the region

Resilient Retreat, a nonprofit leader of trauma-informed mental health and resilience programs, today announced it has received a $750,000 grant from the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation to strengthen the organization for the long term and ensure continued access to no-cost mental health services for thousands of individuals impacted by trauma.

Far more than funding a single program, the grant invests in the people, systems, campus, and infrastructure that make every Resilient Retreat service possible. The investment comes at a critical time as demand for trauma-informed support continues to grow among survivors of abuse, helping professionals, first responders, and others navigating the effects of trauma and chronic stress.

Since moving into its 84-acre campus in 2022, Resilient Retreat has experience unprecedented growth. Annual participation has grown from approximately 2,000 individuals to more than 6,000, while monthly programming has expanded to between 30 and 35 workshops, retreats, support services, and educational opportunities.

As communities nationwide grapple with increasing mental health challenges, affordability remains one of the most significant barriers to care. Resilient Retreat addresses that by providing evidence-based, trauma-informed services at no cost to participants, ensuring support is available regardless of financial circumstances.

“This grant recognizes both the urgency of the mental health needs we are seeing and the importance of building sustainable solutions that can meet those needs for years to come,” said Lisa Intagliata, CEO of Resilient Retreat.

The Barancik Foundation’s investment will support staffing for program coordination, client intake, and administration; maintain the organization’s 84-acre therapeutic campus; strengthen fundraising and philanthropic engagement efforts; and support long-term financial sustainability. The funding will also eliminate the small amount remaining in facility construction debt, enabling more future donor dollars to be directed toward services rather than financing costs.

Resilient Retreat’s programs continue to demonstrate meaningful outcomes for participants.

Recent evaluation data show a 42% decrease in suicidal ideation among participants and 85% reduction in burnout among helping professionals who have completed programs. Participants also report reductions in symptoms associated with depression and PTSD, along with increased resilience, hope, coping skills, and overall well-being.

“Cost too often stands between people and the mental health support they need,” said John Annis, President & CEO of Barancik Foundation. “Resilient Retreat has built a model that removes that barrier for thousands of people each year, and we want to help make that work possible for the long term.”

Rather than signaling that Resilient Retreat’s work is complete, leaders from both organizations emphasize that the grant represents an invitation for others to become part of the solution. The demand for accessible mental health services continues to far exceed available resources, and need for Resilient Retreat’s programs shows no signs of slowing. Meeting the needs of our community requires ongoing collaboration from individuals, foundations, businesses, and community leaders who share a commitment to mental wellness and resilience.

“One foundation cannot solve the mental health crisis alone, and neither can one organization,” said Intagliata. “What this investment does is create momentum. It sends a strong message that building a healthier, more resilient community is a responsibility all of us share. We hope this grant inspires others to learn more about the impact being made every day at Resilient Retreat and to consider how they can help make that impact possible for even more people.”

The grant also builds on Resilient Retreat’s broader strategy for long-term sustainability. Through expanded leadership giving efforts, planned giving initiatives, earned revenue opportunities, and diversified fundraising, the organization is strengthening its financial foundation while maintaining its commitment to providing services free of charge.

As Resilient Retreat continues its transition from startup organization to a recognized leader in providing Trauma Informed Services and Education, leaders see this investment as a vote of confidence in both the organization’s proven outcomes and its future potential. Community members interested in learning more about Resilient Retreat’s programs, impact, and opportunities to support its mission can visit www.resilientretreat.org.