Refuel: The Retreat for Youth Leaders
Rest. Reconnect. Remember Why You Said Yes.
You pour yourself out every week—into students, volunteers, parents, and programs. Refuel Retreat is where we pour into you.
What You Get from Refuel
Leadership Blueprint
You will craft a custom plan resulting in new clarity.
Focused Training
We get youth ministry. You will be known and heard.
Soul Care
We get youth ministry. You will be known and heard.
A New Network
You will connect with a small group of fellow youth workers.
Doug Franklin
As a youth pastor I noticed that every time I put students in charge, the youth ministry increased. Naturally, I began looking for tools to help me develop my young leaders, but I found none. That’s when God laid on my heart a desire to make leadership development resources for youth ministry. In 1994, I started LeaderTreks as a response to that burden.
What Refuel Retreat Alumni Are Saying
Schedule
Day 1
- Arrive Between 2:00pm – 4:30pm
- Catered Dinner (Provided)
- Session 1
Day 2
- Soul Care
- Life Mapping
- Session 2
- Time & Space for Relaxation
- Optional Activities
- Dinner Out
Day 3
- Soul Care
- Life Mapping
- Session 3
- Time & Space for Relaxation
- Optional Activities
FAQ
Who will facilitate my Refuel Retreat?
Refuel Retreats are normally facilitated by the President of LeaderTreks, Doug Franklin, along with different team members of LeaderTreks Youth Ministry.
How much is Refuel Retreat?
Refuel Retreats are meant to be both affordable and a unique experience, so the cost is determined by the Refuel Experience you choose. Check out the cost section of each location page to learn more. In addition, we always want youth workers to experience with their spouses, so we’ve created a special discounted Spouse Rate.
What does the cost include?
At the base level, the cost includes all your training sessions, training materials, and a catered dinner on the first night of the retreat. Cost does not include housing and travel. For higher levels of the Refuel Retreat, the cost may include additional features or experiences.
How much is housing?
Through our partnerships, we are able to offer great discounted rates for housing at our locations. Check out our location pages for more information on booking rooms.
Can I get a refund if I decide not to attend?
Outside of 30 days from the event, your registration is 50% refundable. Within 30 days of the event, your registration is not refundable.
Can I transfer my registration to another person if I can’t attend?
As long as you contact us, you can always transfer your registration to another person if you are unable to attend Refuel Retreat.
Do I have to stay at the hotel/resort mentioned on the Refuel Retreat page?
No. You have the freedom to stay wherever you would like. If you live close to our Refuel Retreat, commute from home. Or if you have family or friends in the area, feel free to stay with them.
What time does Refuel start?
We generally get started at 5pm on the first day of the retreat. After getting to know each other, we will eat dinner and dive into our first session. However at our Premium Refuel Retreat Experience, we may alter the schedule slightly, but we’ll always communicate with you.
How long is each session?
Our first session runs from about 5:00pm to 9:00pm, but includes dinner. Our sessions the next two days start around 8:30am and go until around 12:30pm.
How many people attend Refuel?
We never wanted to create a massive, one size fits all youth pastor conference. Refuel Retreats allow you to interact with other youth workers in meaningful ways, so most Refuel Retreats will never have more than 40 people.
What do I need to bring?
Refuel Retreats are a casual environment, so plan on wearing comfortable clothing, but also pack for the weather depending on your location and time of year. Bring your Bible and a pen and any additional items you may need for optional activities (golf clubs, swim suit, etc.).
What is the setup of the training?
Refuel Retreats are meant to be environments where discussion and community building happen, so our room is setup with large circular tables. Participants get time to discuss the topics presented and collaborate with other youth workers.
Where are Refuel Retreats?
Refuel Retreats are in various locations, so whether you want to travel across the country or stay close to home, there is a Refuel that fits you. Check out the Locations page for more information.







