FAQs
Eligibility
Do I have to pay anything to attend an Operation Purple Family Retreat or Healing Adventures?
There is a $50.00 Hold My Spot Deposit to secure your family’s space. This deposit is refundable unless you would like to donate it for future Operation Purple programs. Food and lodging are provided to families at no cost. There are no activity fees or other expenses. Families are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program.
My family attended Operation Purple Healing Adventures in the past; can I apply again this year?
There is no limit to the number of times you can attend; however, first priority in selection of attendees is given to families who have never attended Operation Purple Healing Adventures before.
Is Operation Purple Healing Adventures open to active duty and veteran military families?
Operation Purple Healing Adventures is a family camp experience for active duty or medically separated or retired service members who were wounded or experienced emotional trauma or illness related to their service Post 9/11. Preference is given to currently serving or those separated from the military in the past 36 months. Members of the National Guard and Reserve may be in either activated or drilling status, provided their injury was sustained while on active duty status.
Is Operation Purple Healing Adventures open to families with infants and toddlers?
Yes. Daycare will be provided onsite during times when an ongoing activity is not suitable for infants and toddlers.
Accessibility
Is transportation provided?
Transportation to and from the Operation Purple program site is the responsibility of the selected family.
What types of accommodations are available at Operation Purple Healing Adventures sites?
Every Operation Purple Healing Adventures site is different, but, at a minimum, all sites offer private rooms that can sleep up to five campers. Handicap accessible rooms are available upon request.
What to Expect
What types of activities are offered?
Each Operation Purple program site has a different focus and activities vary from site to site. Highly specialized field science educators will guide families through various activities such as nature hikes, canoeing, campfires, beach exploration, arts and crafts, and challenge activities. Most of your time will be spent outdoors so families should come prepared to spend lots of time enjoying the scenery. Programs also include resiliency and communication skills activities uniquely tailored to Operation Purple programs.
What type of food can we expect?
Guests enjoy hearty and balanced meals and snacks while attending the program. Meals are typically served buffet or family style. Vegetarian or specific dietary needs can be addressed with advance notice on registration forms.
What should I bring to Operation Purple Healing Adventures?
Accepted families will receive a detailed list of suggested items to pack.