An in-person program with Valerie Brown
Friday, May 29th to Sunday, May 31st, 2026
(for adults 25 and older)
This program is currently full. Please send an email to nico@quakercenter.org to put your name on our waiting list, and we will be in touch with any openings.
Immersed in the stunning beauty of the redwoods in spring, this retreat explores issues of life transition, vocation, passion, purpose, meaning, direction, and underlying patterns, to live in greater alignment with your deepest values, to listen to your own inner wisdom, and to have the courage to act with integrity and authenticity.
Grounded in mindfulness practices in the Plum Village tradition, Quaker faith and practice, the work of Center for Courage and Renewal® and Parker J. Palmer, we will immerse ourselves in nature, build a caring, supportive community, and engage in contemplative practices to support personal and societal transformation.
Program Costs – Weekend Program
All Quaker Center programs are on a sliding scale, with the following suggested contribution amounts:
Standard rate: $200 – $350.
Welcome rate: $75 – $150.
For more information about our program fees, click here.
About the Program Leader
Valerie Brown is an author, Buddhist-Quaker Dharma teacher, facilitator, and executive coach specializing in leadership development and mindfulness practices with a focus on diversity, social equity, and inclusion. A former lawyer and lobbyist, Valerie transformed her high-pressure career into serving nonprofits to create trustworthy, authentic, and compassionate workspaces. For more information about Valerie, please visit
