glenhagen farm retreat

The not for profit glenhagen farm retreat was established by Chuhak & Tecson principal Andy Tecson and his wife, Nancy Hagen. Inspiration for the farm came from Nancy’s parents’ legacy and their ideal that a fair society is one where resources are equally shared, opportunities exist for everyone and the outdoors are preserved. 

At the farm, their ideal blossoms as people of all walks of life get the chance to experience the extraordinary wonders of the ecosystems which support life on earth. For schools, colleges, churches, synagogues, temples, mosques or other houses of worship or not for profit corporations, the farm provides opportunities for worship, meditation, prayer and spiritual growth in the midst of beautiful woods, meadows and valleys; provides education about the miracle of growing and preparing nutritious food; and nurtures inner peace and self-confidence in youth.

The farm has all the amenities one needs to explore and experience: tents, trails, a volleyball court and athletic field, a pavilion, a fire pit for camp fires and s’mores, and an organic garden. It also equips campers with a map for hiking and more. Along the way, campers spot wildlife while hiking or exploring the creek; participate in discussions about such topics as the life cycle of sweet corn; and look up at the stars to learn about astronomy — all to experience the wonder of the earth in a safe, serene setting.

For many of these campers, their visit to the farm is their first opportunity to enjoy pastoral and natural surroundings. The beautiful tree-lined paths throughout the farm are a stark contrast to the concrete, bustling streets of their communities. Many campers come from families with limited financial resources from various neighborhoods in Chicago and exploring glenhagen farm is like “stepping into another world.”

To learn how to help the retreat create life changing experiences for others or for more information on glenhagen farm retreat, contact glenhagenfarm@gmail.com.