The Wisconsin National Guard Family Program and Chaplains have teamed up to offer you a truly outstanding program known as PREP (Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program).

PREP offers a fresh approach. It is basic and straightforward. The workshop and material teach couples the skills they need to nurture a lasting love.
Couples spend most of their time in special discussions or practicing skills. Key topics include expectations, commitment, forgiveness, feeling understood, and sensuality.

PREP is NOT therapy and is probably unlike anything to which you have been exposed. No “encounter” group or sharing of personal concerns, no dry psychobabble….Simply thrilling insights into a more loving, growth-filled relationship!

PREP begins with teaching effective communication skills, addresses problem resolution strategies that work, reveals how to discover the hidden issues in every relationship, and then moves into caring, fun, and friendship.

PREP has proven so effective that it has been featured on “20/20,” “48 Hours,” “Oprah,” and in the printed media.

• You are a married couple
• As a couple you would like to improve your communications and relationship.

Questions service members have about PREP

We’re doing pretty well. Why should we consider attending a Marriage Enrichment Workshop?

All of us can improve our skills when it comes to loving the most important person in our life. Every couple starts off their relationship committed to making it work. Unfortunately, many of us simply do not know HOW to accomplish a healthy and fulfilling marriage. PREP can provide concrete strategies and tools to build a rewarding relationship.

Will we be expected to tell a bunch of strangers what our problems are?

No. This is not group therapy. It is an educational and practical application opportunity to learn what works in a relationship. It’s not necessary to share short-falls with the group. Your confidentiality is important and trainers will protect it.

Are the non Christian PREPs a religious program?
PREP is not a religious program.

Will a Christian PREP be offered?

Yes. We offer Christian PREP weekends which focus on helping couples have strong relationships that reflect Christ’s love. Christian PREP workshops include:

• A biblical model of marriage, intimacy and barriers to oneness.
• A model for helping couples to forgive.
• Helping couples maintain the special blessings of marriage, friendship, fun and physical oneness.
• Discussion of the mystery of spirituality.

Couples: The WI National Guard is allowing service members to attend in a paid status at the discretion of the commander.

What does the workshop cost?

It’s free! People ordinarily pay $150 for the workshop and materials and the total cost of the retreat, including hotel and food can easily exceed $300. Thanks to special funding; however, this workshop is provided at no cost.

Can a single service member attend?

No. There is a separate program entitled “P.I.C.K. a Partner” (Premarital Interpersonal Choices and Knowledge) available for those uncommitted to a long term relationship.

Enjoying the good times: More than “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” learn the secrets of keeping busy lifestyles from crowding-out the fun in your relationship.

Viva La Difference! Gain fresh insight into why men and women see life so differently. You’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for who you are and whom you love.

Danger Signs: Learn the danger signs that can lead to marital discord and can eventually breakdown relationships. Discover how to express your concerns constructively and how to examine hidden issues and expectations that can build quickly in a relationship.

WHO: Service Member and Spouse (must be currently married)

WHERE & WHEN:

Dates To Be Announced

COST: IT’S FREE!

The total cost of this retreat including lodging, meals, and workshop materials could easily exceed several hundred dollars. Thanks to Strong Bonds funding, this retreat is provided at no cost. Although incidentals such as room service, movies, and free time food/recreation is not included.

The Family Program will make room reservations. The information needed for reservations is on the registration form, so ensure it is filled out correctly and completely. Refer questions to the State Family Program office at 1-800-292-9464. The hotel requires a credit card for incidentals at check-in.

• A Friday evening meal will be provided

AGENDA:

Friday Evening

• Dinner
• Welcome and Staff Introductions
• House Keeping Items
• Session One: Introduction
• Ice Breaker
• Session Two: Communication Danger Signs

Saturday Morning

• Breakfast
• Session Three: Honey Let’s Talk
• Break
• Session Four: Issues and Hidden Issues
• Session Five: Fun and Friendship
• Lunch Break

Saturday Afternoon

• Session Six: You, Me and Us
• Session Seven: Stress and Relaxation
• Break
• Session Eight: Problem solving
• Session Nine: Forgiveness
• Session Ten: Supporting Each Other
• Couple Date Night

Sunday Morning

• Worship Service (Optional)
• Breakfast
• Session Eleven: Deployment and Marriage
• Session Twelve: The Sensual/Sexual Relationship
• Break and Room Check Out
• Session Thirteen: Ground Rules
• Session Fourteen: Commitment
• Wrap up
• AAR
• Travel Vouchers

ATTIRE: Business Casual

REGISTRATION:: Closed

Print Brochure (pdf)