Diverse Family Roots Society is once again bringing families together for a weekend of connection, celebration, and respite at the second annual R3SET, running Aug. 22 to Aug. 24 at the Riondel Campground on the East Shore of Kootenay Lake.
The weekend offers free camping and programming for families with children and loved ones with diverse abilities.
Ben Postmus, executive director of Diverse Family Roots, says the event was created as a response to the unique challenges faced by families, challenges that were made even more difficult by the isolation and disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is an opportunity for families to enjoy the beauty of Kootenay Lake while also having a bit of fun,” said Postmus.
"We know how hard the last few years have been, and we want to give families a chance to just breathe, connect, and R3SET (reset).”
The weekend will kick off Friday night with a community meet-and-greet featuring locally made fire-baked pizza and refreshments.
The evening will wind down with a session of sound healing therapy, and, if conditions allow, a bonfire on the beach.
Programming for the weekend is a blend of relaxation, creativity, and movement.
Mornings will begin with yoga on the beach and a pancake breakfast. Families will be invited to take part in Thai massage sessions, art therapy, and a belly dancing workshop hosted by local performer Barb Stang and her troupe.
Stang will also lead a tie-dye session where participants can create their own wearable keepsakes.
A highlight of the weekend will be a Saturday afternoon concert under the campground pavilion featuring local classic rock favourites, The Bats.
A barbecue dinner and a second sound healing session are set to close out the day.
Postmus says the event’s success wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of community partners.
For example, a grant from the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation allowed the society to purchase kayaks for use during the weekend and at future gatherings.
“That’s just one of the things families don’t need to worry about packing up,” Postmus said.
Diverse Family Roots is the only grassroots, parent- and family-driven support network for families with children or members with diverse abilities or disabilities based in the Kootenays.
“The response from the community has just been amazing,” Postmus added. "It really shows how much people care about supporting families.”
There are still a few spaces available for Riondel R3SET 2025.
To learn more or register, email: diversefamilyroots@gmail.com.
