Still Waters Retreat Texas - Nonprofit Sanctuary for First Responders

Psalm 23:2–3

He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

A SANCTUARY FOR REST, RENEWAL, AND CONNECTION

Still Waters Retreat, based in Texas, is a nonprofit (501C3) for first responders and exists to create a place where direction is surrendered back to God, where hearts are searched, and where leaders experience deep and lasting restoration.

We serve Police Officers, Firefighters and EMS Professionals, Veterans, and Pastors and Ministry Leaders by providing intentional environments for rest, reflection, and renewal. Through guided retreat experiences and spiritual support, individuals are given space to slow down, process what they carry, and allow God to restore clarity, health, and vision.

Our mission is to see those who serve others sustained in their calling through rhythms of restoration that impact their lives, families, and leadership.

THE HEROES WE SERVE

VETERANS

POLICE OFFICERS

FIRE FIGHTERS AND EMS

PASTORS

The Problems Our First Responders Face

50%

Firefighters and EMS Professionals: face a burnout rate of 50%, which is substantially higher than the general population, due to chronic exposure to trauma, grief, and high-stress emergencies.

188

Police Officers: An average officer experiences 188 traumatic events throughout their career—compared to just five for the average person.

42%

Pastors: Over 42% of pastors report feelings of stress, isolation, and burnout—leading many to consider leaving ministry entirely.

50%

Military & Veterans: In our state, veterans struggle with a suicide rate 50% higher than the general population, underscoring the urgent need for mental health support.

OUR SOLUTION

1. Create a place to rest and reset.

Create a space where first responders can lay down the weight of their duties to slow down, feel seen, and be supported.

2. Connect them to others.

Connecting first responders strengthens their relationships and builds a supportive network that carries them beyond their time of rest.

3. Equip them with resources.

Equip first responders with essential resources for their work and mental health, and provide empowering tools to support their roles.

Testimonies

Space to Breathe Again

“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I was invited to step away for a few days with a group of men I didn’t know. Like most guys, the thought of being out of my comfort zone felt daunting. But the moment I arrived, I was met with kindness in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

After dinner on the first night, we headed to a beautiful, secluded home. Coming from a first responder’s home, the quiet was exactly what I needed. Thoughtful gift baskets awaited us, and what struck me most was that there was no ‘catch.’ We simply gathered, shared stories, and laughed harder than I had in years. My guard came down, and I realized how much I needed that space to breathe again.”

Not Meant to Go Alone

“The Still Waters retreat was marked by intentionality in every detail. The hosts made sure rest and joy were at the center, something that doesn’t come naturally to me. I usually feel like taking time off means letting others down, but this retreat reminded me how wrong that thinking is.

What I left with was more than rest. It was friendship, healing, and a powerful reminder that men are not meant to do life alone. We bottle things up, and it wears us down. This experience re-highlighted the truth that God designed us for community. I came home refreshed, encouraged, and grateful for the gift of this retreat.”

Refueled from Running on Empty

“Why you need to experience Still Water Retreat: You cannot keep giving if you are running on empty. Whether you are a first responder, a leader, or someone who is always pouring into others, life can get heavy fast. Sometimes, you just need a place to breathe. That is exactly what Still Water Retreat gave me—a space to unwind, recharge, and be reminded that I am not alone.

This was not some overly structured seminar with forced small talk or programmed vulnerability. It was laid-back, peaceful, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed. We grilled on the back patio, had natural conversations that went deeper than surface level, and the gifts we received were personal and meaningful. Every detail was designed to help us unplug and rest.”

I Am Not Alone

“One of the most powerful moments happened on the back deck overlooking the water. We were just sitting there, talking honestly with no pressure, and I realized I was not carrying my burdens alone. Our jobs and responsibilities can feel isolating, but being surrounded by people who understand was life-giving in a way I did not expect.

If you are a first responder, a leader, or someone who constantly gives to others, you need this retreat. We carry things most people do not see, and Still Waters creates a space that honors you and gives you rest, encouragement, and renewal. I almost said no to going, but by the end of the first night I was thinking, ‘I cannot believe I almost missed this.’”