The Lighthouse Family Retreat provides seaside retreats for families living through childhood cancer.   Retreats are held in rented or donated homes along the Florida panhandle between Destin and Panama City Beach and are scheduled from April to October. Around 120 people attend each retreat comprised of 10-12 retreat families and 30 volunteers who serve them by pampering, cooking, cleaning and taking care of daily responsibilities so that the retreat families can focus on having fun together. 

The Lighthouse was designed to bring joy to children with cancer and their families, while renewing their strength, hope, and love. We accomplish this mission through our distinctive volunteers, nurturing environment, and inspirational program. 

Our Volunteers

Retreats are staffed with humble volunteers from all walks of life that give their time to serve and gently lighten the burden of childhood cancer. Stay-at-home moms, business executives, sometimes even members of the child's own health care team volunteer their time. While there is no cost incurred to the retreat families, volunteers raise funds to cover their cost to attend.

Our Environment

Each Lighthouse Retreat is held in a beautiful, peaceful and refreshing beach side community intended to restore joy and rest to the retreat families. Hospitals, clinics and cell phones are left behind and replaced with sandy beaches, fresh air and the sound of children’s laughter as they jump in the waves. Our welcoming, caring and nurturing environment enables retreat families to feel at home from the moment they arrive. 

Our Program

Childhood cancer impacts everyone in the family. Understandably, the child with cancer most often becomes the focus of concern, often leaving the siblings feeling lonely, insecure, and left out. The daily Lighthouse program offers special attention for every member of the family – moms, dads, siblings and the child with cancer. 

Our program offers fun, family-centered activities to help you "feel like a family" again. For children, time spent playing in a carefree environment is essential. For parents, a daily group meeting called "Common Grounds" provides a safe place to share with others living through similar life challenges. Highlights of the Lighthouse program include shared meal times, beach games, crafts, music, Christian-based devotionals, parent groups and evening activities like a luau, a special night out for the parents and a talent show. 

Retreats are designed to bring joy to the child with cancer and their family to help them continue their journey with new strength, hope and love.