The Orvis Co. provides the fly fishing gear for the participants to use during each retreat. The CFR retreat is a two-day program that incorporates both fly fishing instruction and social support. Women trained specifically for the CFR program staff each retreat including a health care professional, a psychotherapist, and fly-fishing instructors. Participants and staff arrive the evening before the first day's activities for an informal gathering with the staff, volunteers, and other supporters. Fly fishing instruction includes casting, knot tying, entomology and more.
Meals are informal and allow for spontaneous conversations.
Fishing on the second day provides time for reflection and the opportunity to put their new skills to the test with catch and release fishing. We know of the positive impact this program has had on many of the participants from the evaluation forms, personal letters, and testimonials we have received. Susan Casting for Recovery retreats are made possible through generous donations from private individuals, corporations, foundations, and grants. Many volunteers have contributed their time and effort to the program, also.