+ how do I get there? Directions, please!

• please use the address: 2277 Martha Berry Hwy, Rome, Georgia 30149. This will take you to the entrance of Berry College. From there, follow the directions to WinShape Retreat below:
• After turning into the main entrance, stop at the Welcome Center.
• Have your driver’s license ready.
• • (Heads up: There are a lot of deer on campus, so be alert when driving.)
• After the Welcome Center, you’ll soon drive into a roundabout.
• Take the second right at the roundabout. It’s a little tight, but it is still two-way. You’ll pass Herman Hall (brick building) on your left, with fields and a small cabin to your right.
• The road will quickly dead end. At the stop sign, turn right.
• Proceed to the four-way stop ahead of you and turn left, following signs to WinShape.
• You will soon enter an area designated as a Wildlife Reserve. This road leads to the WinShape Foundation campus and is approximately 3 miles long, taking you through a wooded area.
• As you approach WinShape’s campus, you will come up on a speed bump. Very shortly after, you’ll reach an intersection
• Go straight and this will take you to WinShape Centre (Your meeting is in this building.). There is a roundabout and a small parking lot. (Additional parking behind this building)
• • If you have any problems navigating here, please contact the Front Desk at 706-368-6821.

+ what are breakout sessions?

GFS thrives because we believe we can all learn from each other. All attendees are welcome to propose, lead, and attend breakout sessions. Breakout sessions can take the form of activity, discussion, or presentation (be sure to bring anything you need for leading a session). We highly encourage everyone to attend the sessions most helpful to them.

+ Can I tell/bring others?

Absolutely! All are welcome and there will be something for every interest. This event is best suited for those who currently or in the future might work in the fields of experiential learning, adventure education, challenge courses, camps, and experiential-based teaching or corporate training.

+ Can I get involved?

This is an annual event, which requires special people who are willing to jump in and help each year, so YES!. If you are interested in being involved in this year or next year’s event, please chat with any member of this year’s planning committee (see their info below...)

+ What about kids?

This conference is for Challenge Course Practitioners or individuals aspiring to be in the experiential industry in any capacity. No childcare will be provided.

+ My Plans changed, can I get a refund?

Thank you for inquiring. However, there are no refunds. You may transfer your fee to someone else of your choice or donate it to the scholarship fund.

+ Who is planning this event?

GFS is an event co-planned as a grass-roots collaborative effort by representatives from a number of different organizations in Georgia. The intention is to create a local space for facilitators of all types to come together to network, share, learn, and grow. All of the people involved in creating the event are volunteers who believe strongly in this vision. The 2025 Planning Committee includes:

Arielle Mindigo - Berry College amindigo@berry.edu

Asa Rankin - Berry College Asa.rankin@viking.berry.edu

Bradley Joseph - WinShape Foundation bjoseph@winshape.org

Brian Kellert - Camp Coleman Bryan.kellert@gmail.com

Heather Flanagan - Sojourn Adventures heatherbflanagan@gmail.com

Jennifer Heard - Sojourn Adventures JenniferH@perimeter.org

Lori Smith - GA Tech lorismith@gatech.edu

Michelle Rouleau - Signature Research Michelle@signatureresearch.com

+ Why does GFS exist?

Mission Statement: The Georgia Facilitators Summit (GFS) unites experiential educators and facilitators across Georgia, providing a collaborative and inclusive environment for learning, sharing, and growing while inspiring innovation and fostering meaningful connections.

Vision Statement: To be a go-to hub for experiential education professionals in Georgia, inspiring facilitators to grow, innovate, and deliver unforgettable experiences that transform people through the power of experiential learning.

Purpose Statement: Our purpose is to create a space which elevates the experiential education field. Where facilitators of all backgrounds and experiences can connect to learn, share knowledge, challenge ideas, and grow, enhancing their personal and professional development in a supportive and empowering environment.

Core Values:

• Community: We foster connections and support networks that inspire and uplift our members.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of shared knowledge, experiences, and resources to achieve common goals.
• Creativity: We embrace innovation and new ideas to enhance the practice of experiential education.
• Content: We are committed to continuous learning, professional development, and personal growth. Creating meaningful experiences that will impact the greater world around us
• Cheerfulness: We emphasize the importance of enjoyment, creativity, and play in the learning process.