Embracing Purpose and Community: A Recap of MdC's Staff Retreat
“What I liked the most about the offsite was that they said that they were creating leaders …. I want to be a leader and continue preparing myself and giving love to what I do. I want to do something different out of the ordinary and serve people in a good way.”
– MdC Staff Member
On July 29, Francisco and Jean led 27 of our MdC Mexico staff on a 3-day offsite staff retreat in the mountains of Tecate in BC, Mexico. They left the 120 degree temperatures behind and embarked on a journey of learning and new experiences. This special time provided a unique opportunity for our staff members –– many who are from the very communities we serve –– to connect, bond, and reflect on the heart of MdC's work and impact.
Group Picture Before Heading Out!
These 3 days were incredibly special. A significant portion of the MdC staff members are from the community we serve, so for many, this was the first time that they’ve left the city, other than when they first arrived. It was a beautiful setting to learn in with cooler temperatures and beautiful mountain views.
We set out on our 3-hour journey in three vans, each equipped with a walkie talkie to communicate between vans. We used our WhatsApp chat to compete in an intense scavenger hunt that included things to find, original songs, storytelling and other fun and challenging items. The hunt required 100% van participation so it was a great way to begin by breaking the ice and engaging the team.
Team Scavenger Hunt In The Vans!
“We got closer to those we didn't know, there was a good friendships formed. I liked the games because that helped us to connect together more”
– MdC Staff Member
We Got To Enjoy A Very Exciting Boat Ride!
“Even though I was nervous at first, I really liked learning more about the projects that MdC has, taking care of what they put in our hands, and taking care of everything. More than anything, the courage I had to get on the boat, I really liked it because I was able to spend time with my colleagues, I had a great time.”
– MdC Staff Member
Each day, we engaged in activities that help us to learn more about each other and those we serve. Below, each staff member went around and wrote what they appreciated on a sheet of paper that was taped to our backs. It was an impactful exercise to think through what we valued in our colleagues and also to read what people wrote to each of us.
Words Of Affirmation
Mirroring the leader
“I enjoyed everything from start to finish .. I was able to understand MdC's mission and vision more clearly. Knowing and connecting with the team also helped me to embrace what God is doing here more”
– MdC Staff Member
Throughout the retreat, our goal was clear: to foster a deeper understanding of MdC's vision and values. During our time of reflection and learning, we not only got to explore the power of hope and empowerment through our work, but we got to witness our staff –– strangers from different walks of life –– come together and create deep connections with one another.
Francisco Leads The Team In A Devotion
We want each team member to see their role as not just a job, but as a life purpose. What we do is so much more than the tasks we perform –– it's about the lives we touch and the communities we uplift.
Francisco Giving A Talk On MdC’s Finances
During the retreat, a key emphasis was recognizing our staff as leaders, especially those from the community. This emphasis on leadership deeply impacted many, as they had never considered themselves as leaders before, but now felt empowered to step into that role.
We were also able to reflect on the power of giving. It was a revelation for a lot of our staff, many of whom come from the very communities that benefit from MdC's programs, to understand about the sacrificial giving of our donors. We shared about ways that we all can give back and we mutually agreed upon ways to guard our resources and continue to use them well for the benefit of the community.
Gisell presented to the team strategies for effective communication and giving feedback. She taught the sandwich technique of layer feedback between praise and ways to communicate clearly and with love. Authentic communication is difficult and so this was a great lesson shared.
Gisell Giving An Impactful Talk On Communication
What made this time special, was witnessing how a group of individuals, some previously strangers, formed genuine connections and became a better team together.
Jean, Gabi, Aurora and Fabi all shared a meal together
“I really liked the coexistence of all, they did not make anyone less. We all paid attention and participated in everything. I learned that this is not a job, this is to help people, we are blessed to help people.”
– MdC Staff Member
Final Team Picture
At MdC, our mission isn't just about the work; it's about the people — the team, the donors, and the communities—that make it all possible. As we returned to San Luis Rio Colorado, we carried the collective strength of our staff retreat with us and the confidence that our work has a true impact, empowering our people, communities, and one another.