Spouses for Couples Weekend

March 27 - 30, 2026


The YMCA Trout Lodge - Potosi, MO

REGISTRATION OPEN DECEMBER 2025

Registration Deadline February 27


C.O.P.S. Spouses for Couples Weekend is planned for surviving spouses, and their new 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).


Testimonial from a 2025 Spouses for Couples Weekend Attendee:


"My boyfriend isn’t a first responder and is working to understand this world and how he fits in. The retreat made him feel part of something and not an outsider. It allowed us to talk candidly about both our feelings." 


What to Expect

For a surviving spouse, starting a new relationship and finding love again can be a challenging journey. Your new partner may find it challenging to navigate the twists and turns of your grief, often feeling overshadowed by the memory of your late spouse. This weekend offers a supportive environment where couples can acknowledge each other's struggles while developing a deeper, more compassionate bond.


Couples will participate in group support sessions facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. Support sessions are coupled with wellness activities, giving you and your partner the chance to reconnect with each other and connect with others who share similar experiences. We hope that you and your partner will depart from this weekend with a renewed sense of understanding, community, lifelong friendships, and a strengthened connection for your future together. For a detailed schedule of events, please click here to view our sample agenda for the weekend.


Please review our general Code of Conduct


What is the Cost of the Weekend?

Your only expense is your travel to and from the St. Louis Airport if you are flying. Or, to and from the YMCA Trout Lodge, if you are driving. If flying, buses will be available to pick up attendees from the airport on the scheduled arrival day and back on departure day.



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 Weekend, you could be subject to a participation fee for the following year’s Weekend.


Session Examples:

  • Blended Families
  • Conflict: The Elephant in the Room
  • Honoring the Past without Overshadowing the Future
  • Building Trust
  • Developmental Grief in Children & Teens

Travel Information



Please do not make any travel arrangements until you receive confirmation from C.O.P.S. that your registration has been received and approved to attend the program.


After confirmation: Attendees will be sent detailed information to book their travel arrangements. 


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.