27 | QIdaho Magazine | NEWS QIdaho . com | Issue 22 | August 2016
Desert Pause Retreat
For over two decades , the Desert Pause Retreat for men and women with HIV / AIDS has been hosted by the Monks of St . Benedict , and held annually at their Monastery of the Ascension in Jerome , Idaho . From its inception , Desert Pause has provided POZ individuals a rare opportunity to learn , socialize , and self-renew in a welcoming , non-judgmental , stigma-free environment with others who truly understand .
Our unique four-day in-residence program provides attendees with comfortable hotel-style accommodations in a modern and inviting retreat facility . Desert Pause encourages fellowship , teaches tolerance , and supports intra-community building . Scheduled activities feature informative , expert presentations on : health and fitness , the legal environment , HIV research and medications , and patient continuation of care / compliance strategies and protocols .
Complementing the focus on education , Desert Pause offers a variety of individual and small group activities that are fun and engaging , and the retreat serves up wholesome food and beverages — all designed to build the mind and body , and to lift the spirit .
Space is limited , as the retreat can accommodate a maximum of 30 participants and volunteers . The registration fee is $ 75 per person for retreat housing , meals and activities . Scholarships ( of up to $ 50 ) are available based upon financial need .
For additional information on the Annual Desert Pause Retreat , visit the website at : www . desertpause . com . Or , contact our retreat coordinator , JJ Scheuerer , by phone at ( 208 ) 919-0443 or by email at DesertPauseRetreat @ gmail . com .