On a gorgeous summer week in July, For the Many returned to The Uplands for the third time for their staff retreat. Having built a connection with the land through previous visits, the returning team was excited to share the beauty and magic of this place with three staff members who were experiencing The Uplands for the first time. The organization, which organizes across the Hudson Valley around housing justice, workers’ rights, immigration, climate, and democracy, came with a clear intention: to deepen relationships, integrate how they’ve grown as an organization, and step away from a constant growth mentality. Rather than focusing only on what comes next, they wanted to celebrate what they’ve already built and recognize that rest, connection, and joy are essential parts of sustainable movement work.
The weather couldn’t have been more supportive. Blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and sweeping Catskill views invited the group to move many of their work sessions onto the East Patio overlooking the rolling green hills. Their meetings balanced focused strategy with creativity and play. Large group discussions flowed into breakout sessions, with pairs and small groups spreading out into quiet nature nooks around the property. Meeting time included laughter, movement, dancing, and thoughtful conversation. Alongside strategic work, there was time for yoga, a sound bath, hikes, swimming, lawn games, and the simple pleasure of being together outdoors. Each evening, the group gathered in and around the hot tub under the night sky, creating space to unwind and deepen connections.
The rhythm of the retreat was supported by shared meals that created space to come together, slow down, and continue conversations in a more informal setting. The kitchen kept everyone well nourished with abundant, seasonal meals that the group enthusiastically appreciated throughout the weekend. Thursday evening’s feast was especially memorable, chilled zucchini soup, coq au vin or mushroom stroganoff, grits with a summer vegetable medley, kale salad, sourdough bread with local cheeses, and a peach and blueberry crumble to finish, accompanied by rose hip orange blossom tea. Thoughtful strategy, meaningful connection, beautiful Catskill weather, and time to both work hard and truly enjoy one another came together to create a retreat that left the group with a clear direction for the months ahead and a renewed appreciation for one another and the work they are building together.
