Fried Center Retreat FAQ

You have questions. We have answers! However, if you have a question not answered in this FAQ, please feel free to reach out to our Director, Leah Wilck, at leah@gatesofprayer.org.

How are kashrut and other dietary considerations handled?

All provided meals are kosher-style. We can also accommodate kosher, vegetarian/vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice.

We typically build free time into our itineraries, including one meal at an establishment of your child’s choice. We’ll provide a few options compliant with whatever dietary restrictions you may have.

What type of excursions and service projects are offered?

Check out our sample list of excursions and service projects under our retreat tab. Please be mindful that these are not guaranteed. Our excursions and service projects are subject to availability based on the season you come.

What's your Shabbat observance policy?

Congregation Gates of Prayer is an egalitarian Reform synagogue with Friday night services, Saturday morning Torah study, and Shabbat morning services. However, we are not limited to CGoP’s worship schedule and can accommodate varied approaches to Shabbat observance, depending on your group’s needs.

If your group prefers a Friday night service, followed by a Saturday morning spent on a mitzvah project, we are happy to accommodate. If you’d prefer a no-cars, no-screens Saturday engaged in morning service followed by picnicking in City Park, we can do that too!

What safety measures are in place?

The Fried Center is located on a secure campus with controlled access points. We work with the Secure Community Network (SCN) to secure our campus and adhere to all local, state, and federal security guidelines. When your child visits New Orleans attractions, they will be accompanied by a CPR/First Aid-trained staff member of the Fried Center.

What happens in severe weather?

Hurricanes are a fact of life in the Crescent City, however, we monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center daily to make real-time decisions. If a Category 2+ storm is forecasted to hit the New Orleans area within five days pre-retreat, we will either reschedule the trip for a later date for no extra cost or provide full refunds to the group.

Is there anything special my child should pack?

We will distribute packing lists prior to your scheduled retreat time. But please plan to pack layers as New Orleans weather can easily change. That said, please plan to leave any weapons, valuables, expensive electronics, or illegal objects at home, though. It also never hurts to ensure early that your child will have enough of any necessary medications well in advance of arrival.

How will medications be handled?

Generally, we plan to allow your synagogue representative to manage medications directly with you and your family. However, we will ask you to fill out a medical form indicating any medications your child takes or is allergic to.

Can I accompany my child for the retreat?

For group cohesion, we discourage parental chaperones, except in the case of designated synagogue representatives.

How do you accommodate special needs?

Every child learns differently. Please notify us during registration about any accommodations we can make to help your child have the best time possible, including:

Learning differences
Mobility needs
Sensory needs and/or sensitivities

Need More Answers?

Contact our Director, Leah Wilck at:

📞 504-885-2600
📧 leah@gatesofprayer.org
🕒 Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM Central