When: September 13-16, 2024

Where: YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park, CO

Registration Deadline: August 13, 2024

C.O.P.S. Siblings Retreat is planned for surviving siblings and their spouse/domestic partner* (21 years or older) of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, as determined by C.O.P.S. criteria. Other relatives and friends are not eligible to attend.

*Domestic Partner is defined as a long term committed legal or interpersonal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a common domestic life (i.e., not just a boy/girlfriend).

What to Expect

On occasion, surviving siblings have been referred to as the forgotten ones, due to putting their grief aside to help the surviving parents, spouse, and children of their fallen brother or sister. 

At C.O.P.S. Siblings Retreat, siblings will have the opportunity to express themselves with peers who know how they feel. You will meet licensed mental health professionals who facilitate various sessions and offer optional one-on-one counseling that will address your needs and provide tools to support you in your everyday life. Along with these sessions, you will get the opportunity to participate in fun and challenging activities. 

We hope that siblings leave the retreat realizing that they are not alone in their grief and struggles. It is our goal for you to leave the retreat feeling truly heard, supported, and with a tremendous sense of personal-growth.

What is the cost of the retreat?

Your only expense is your travel to and from the Denver Airport if you are flying or to and from the YMCA of the Rockies if you are driving. All lodging, meals and activities are provided at no cost. If you fail to cancel your attendance and you do not show up for the program, you could be subject to a participation fee for the following year’s program.

Session Examples

• The Challenge of Family After the Loss of a Sibling
• When I Can’t Think Anymore
• Guilt and Regret - Confronting the “Shoulds”
• Releasing Anxiety
• Where Did My Parents Go?
• How Much Grief Can a Relationship Manage?

Travel Information

If you are flying: you should plan to arrive at Denver International Airport (DEN) between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Friday, September 13. You will be met by a C.O.P.S. representative at the airport and transported to the YMCA of the Rockies by bus. You will be transported back to the Denver Airport on Monday, September 16, by 11:00 a.m. Please be sure your return flight is AFTER 12:00 p.m. to allow time for check-in and security checks.

If you are driving: You will need to arrive at the YMCA of the Rockies by 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13, and stay through breakfast on Monday, September 16. Meals and activities are planned; no late arrivals or early departures please.

Limited travel assistance may be available. Contact your local C.O.P.S. Chapter or contact the C.O.P.S. National Office for additional information.