Member for

5 years 6 months
Photo
Cover Photo
bergamot blooms in a summer field
First Name
Deborah
Last Name
Haak-Frost
Biography

If you make a reservation for a retreat at GilChrist, you will most likely see my name on the email signature, talk with me on the phone, or see my face when you arrive. I’ve always delighted in being able to connect people with the natural world in ways that allow them to experience their environment deeply and meaningfully. My undergraduate degree in psychology and environmental studies paved the way for this beautiful integration of two passions of mine. The principles of permaculture – earth care, people care, and fair share – also shape my approach to my work. Making rest and retreat more accessible for all is something I try to work toward.

I also do a lot of the behind-the-scenes logistics and administrative work at GilChrist: working with group retreat facilitators, handling billing, managing social media, keeping the website up to date, cataloging the library, and also pitching in with cabin cleaning and feeding the goats.

When I’m not at work, you can find me volunteering in my Three Rivers community, cooking and baking in my kitchen, taking in thought-provoking television and movies with my husband, or daydreaming about grand garden plans for my backyard.

Job Title
Caretaker for Community Engagement
Cover Caption
Bergamot blooms in this summer view from the GilChrist office
Engagement Results Display
Off
Staff Department
GilChrist Retreat Center
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org
Submitted by dhaak on Wed, 09/27/2023 - 14:39

“GilChrist: A Place to Remember” is a book that tells the story of GilChrist Retreat Center, how it came to be, the countless people who contributed to the creation and the stories that shaped it. People from all walks of life find their way to GilChrist for different reasons: they come to rest, to heal, to celebrate, for renewal and to remember what is essential in life.

Join us at the beautiful WindHill building on GilChrist's grounds on Sunday, October 15 from 2:00-4:00pm to chat with the book's author, Molly Vass-Lehman, purchase a book, and get your copy signed.

The book will be available after October 15 at the following places locally and online:

 

Event Type
Special Event
Partner
GilChrist Retreat Center
Start Date
End Date
Topics
Southwest Michigan
Slideshow
Summer Pond by Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma.jpg
Join
On
Event Category
GilChrist
Location

GilChrist Retreat Center
56265 Day Rd
Three Rivers, MI 49093-9535
United States