Young Adults Lake of the Ozarks Experience

TAPS, in partnership with Operation BBQ Relief (OBR), invites you to join with other young adults ages 18-30 for five days at Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks for a time of peer connection, adventure, and culinary experience. Operation BBQ Relief operates Camp OBR and has partnered with TAPS to provide a unique experience, including survivors creating incredible meals guided by internationally recognized chefs and renowned competition pitmasters leading these therapeutic culinary experiences.

OVERVIEW

The grief journey can be a confusing and lonely time for a Young Adult. During this retreat, Survivors will have the opportunity to connect with others, share their stories, and find support with others who understand.  Together, we will build community and connection with peers, while learning healthy self-care and coping skills for grief and everyday life.  

Operation BBQ’s incredible chefs will guide Survivors in unique culinary experiences as they create incredible meals and challenge their culinary abilities. Young Adults will be able to experience the beauty of their surroundings through lake activities, hiking, archery, 4-wheeling, and creative expression. Through a week of adventure, community, and growth, survivors will create unique bonds stemming from their shared experiences of loss and grief.

Who should attend? Due to the unique nature of this event, this Experience is intended for those survivors whose loss occurred more than six months ago. If you are within the first six months following your loss, we encourage you to attend a TAPS Togethers, Regional Seminar and/or the National Military Survivor Seminar.

SCHEDULE

Wednesday: Travel day. Survivors arriving at the airport will be shuttled to Camp OBR based on individual flight arrival times. Everyone should arrive at the event location before 5 p.m. TAPS staff will be there to greet you and get you checked in. We'll have an opportunity to get settled in, meet fellow survivors, enjoy dinner together, get an overview of what to expect, and relax.

Thursday to Saturday:  Each day will be filled with opportunities to develop coping skills, share experiences, and build peer connections. Activities, including farm-to-table culinary experiences, hiking, boating and watersports, archery, ATV riding and more will be available. There will also be individual time to reflect on new experiences and connections, and your next journey ahead. 

Sunday:  Departure day. For survivors departing from the airport, shuttles will be scheduled based on individual flight departure times.

ADVENTURE LEVEL

This retreat is rated as a moderate-intensity adventure. We'll be active and everyone will have an opportunity to challenge themselves. Activities will involve moderate physical exertion. Much of our time will be spent outdoors. There will also be time to relax and connect with one another.

EVENT FEES

Thanks to the generous NFL sponsorship, TAPS is able to provide lodging, meals, activities and supplies for all attendees at Camp OBR from Wednesday night to Sunday. You'll share a room with other event attendees but will have your own bed. TAPS Young Adults Program staff will be in contact after applicants have been approved and registered.

Attendees will need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from the event. Please do not make travel arrangements until you are contacted after registering.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Before you submit your application, we encourage you to take time to review potential flight costs, possible time off work, child care, and so on.

Animals: Camp OBR is service dog friendly; however this retreat location is not suitable for emotional support animals. If you have any questions please contact adultprograms@taps.org.

Firearms and Guns: Are prohibited at Camp OBR without prior written permission from Camp OBR personnel. All approved firearms and guns must be kept in the Camp OBR gun safe. Firearms and guns can not be stored in or on personal vehicles. Firearms and guns will not be used during this event. Firearms and guns are not permitted in any Camp OBR residences, rooms, tents, nor anywhere else on Camp OBR grounds except specifically designated areas. If you have any questions please contact adultprograms@taps.org.

APPLICATION DETAILS

Applications are open from February 28, 2025 to March 31, 2025 (look for the blue button at the top of this page at this time). TAPS will review applications, giving first consideration for those who have never attended this or any other TAPS retreat, in order for the greatest number of survivors to have an opportunity to attend. Applicants will be notified of acceptance or waitlist status shortly after application is submitted. Thank you for your understanding.

If you have any questions, please email adultprograms@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).