IS filled a retreat or a conference?

It’s neither! It’s both! We think it has all the best of a retreat and a conference rolled into one! The very first Filled Retreat hosted 85 foster & adoptive moms. There was only one speaker, we sat on metal folding chairs, and the food wasn’t great–but we loved it! It made us excited for how we could combine the intimacy, fun, and connection you would experience at a small retreat with the excellent content and organization you would expect from a large conference. Filled 2025 will include the same elements that make you feel seen and help you connect with other foster & adoptive moms right alongside the very best speakers, worship, and experiences of a large conference. We expect 1,250 women this year and will continue to do our best to help you connect in smaller, more intimate spaces throughout the weekend!

What is the difference between “full Registration” and “partial registration?”

A FULL REGISTRATION costs $275 and includes all sessions, workshops, snacks & drinks, special activities & goodies, and FIVE MEALS (Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast & lunch & dinner, Sunday breakfast). A PARTIAL REGISTRATION costs $175 and includes all sessions, workshops, snacks & drinks, special activities & goodies, but NO MEALS. Upon check-in, attendees with full registrations will receive a special bracelet that will serve as a meal ticket. This bracelet is required to enter the dining room. Due to limited seating capacity, only those with a bracelet will be permitted to enter the dining room. For attendees who choose the partial registration/no meals option, there are dozens of coffee shops, eateries, and restaurants within walking distance of the convention center.

**FULL REGISTRATIONS ARE SOLD OUT**

I’m not a Christian. Can I still attend Filled?

Filled is a Christian retreat with Biblically-based, Christ-centered teaching, contemporary worship, and times of prayer. That said, at past Filled retreats, we’ve had women of different faiths and women who don’t ascribe to any faith who have shared that they felt welcomed and comfortable and refreshed! All are welcome!

I’m nervous about coming by myself. Help ease my mind!

About half of the women who’ve attended Filled come by themselves! This year, we are being more intentional than ever to help you find your people–including connection groups, small discussions, a special meetup for ladies attending on their own, guided meal times, and gathering women by role/season/location. We asked the moms who attended Filled alone if they felt comfortable, and here’s how they responded: It was amazing. Not once the whole weekend did I feel out of place or awkward. Everyone was amazingly welcoming and friendly. • It brings tears to my eyes how welcomed I felt • My roomies were great! • I absolutely felt perfectly comfortable and connected. Not even once did I get hung up on the fact that I was alone. • I felt extremely comfortable and welcomed. • I was so nervous but was instantly welcomed with warmth and comfort. I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone to come.

Where is Filled located?

The Lancaster Marriott is conveniently attached to the Lancaster Convention Center. The location boasts spacious, state of the art meeting rooms; modern, luxurious guest rooms; delicious, high quality meals; ample open space for connection & rest; and beautiful views of the city. This location offers a level of restorative comfort that we’ve been unable to offer at former venues. We are thrilled to be able to bless and pamper you like never before!

You can reserve your hotel room at the Lancaster Marriott here. The hotel offers rooms that include either 1 King bed or 2 Double beds. Feel free to coordinate with your friends (or connect with someone in the Filled Rides & Roommates Connection Group) to share a room and split the cost!

Who WILL BE SPEAKING?

You can find the full line up here. Our speakers include foster and adoptive parents, former foster youth, adoptees, excellent Biblical teachers, and experts in parenting, trauma, and attachment. We are committed to bringing orthodox Biblical theology and research-based, practical education from gifted speakers who bring diversity in race and ethnicity as well as perspective and lived experience within foster care/adoption. If you are an expert in the foster care/adoption space and are interested in presenting a workshop, please fill out this form: Workshop Submission Form.

I have special dietary needs. Can you accommodate me?

We will offer gluten free, vegetarian, and dairy free options at all meals and snack times. Foods for special diets will be available at a separate buffet line in the dining room and specially marked tables throughout the event.

Can I tag on an extra night before or after the retreat?

Yes! The discounted rate for hotel rooms is offered for Thursday night and Sunday evening also. Make sure to reserve your room here. Meals will not be included for any extra days, but the Lancaster Marriott has numerous restaurants, each with wonderful atmosphere and impeccable food. **Availability for adding on an extra day is limited, so room reservations are first come, first served.

I can’t come for the whole weekend. Can I get a day pass?

Day passes are not available, but a partial registration for the weekend (meals not included) is available at a discounted rate. Entrance to the main sessions, workshops, and special activities require full or partial registration. Guests, family members, etc. cannot join attendees without a registration for any portion of the event.

How do I get there?

Please visit our Travel & Lodging Page for more information about transportation. Visit the Filled Rides & Roommates Connection Group to coordinate rides with other attendees.

are there sponsorship opportunities for organIZATIONS and vendors at Filled?

Yes! You can read all about our sponsorship packages here. Please reach out to julianna@fosterthefamily.org to request more information.

Can i volunteer at Filled?

Yes! We can use volunteers to help with book sales throughout the weekend and party prep Saturday afternoon. Volunteer shifts are 2-4 hours. You can sign up to volunteer here. Volunteering allows you access to the main session or workshops before/after your shift.

Are scholarships available?

This year we are launching a scholarship program for moms who need financial assistance to attend Filled. Please fill out the Scholarship Application Form to be considered for a scholarship. Many moms have also received funds from their church or agency to subsidize the cost of registration. We can coordinate with your church or agency directly if they need to provide funds directly. Please email hello@filledretreat.com for help. — SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 ARE NOW CLOSED.

Can I bring my child or animal?

Children and pets are not permitted at the Filled Retreat for any reason. This is a moms only event. Please email hello@filledretreat.com about a service or emotional support animal.

What if I can’t make it?

We are unable to issue refunds for any cancellations. However, if you are unable to attend, your registration fee can be considered a tax deductible donation and a receipt can be provided.