What is the purpose of the retreat? The retreat is designed to bring all employees together for team building, professional development, and relaxation and to align on company goals and values. It’s a chance to strengthen relationships, collaborate across departments, and recharge. 

When and where is the retreat taking place?

• Date(s): November 12-14, 2025 

• Location: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort 

• Check-In Time: Noon 

• Check-Out Time: Noon 

Please arrive by 3:00 pm EST to avoid missing the opening activities. 


Is the retreat mandatory attendance for staff? Attendance is not mandatory, but we strongly encourage full participation to maximize this valuable experience. If there are extenuating circumstances that do not allow you to attend, please discuss this with your manager as soon as possible. 

Will we be responsible for booking individual travel? All flights for the retreat will be booked through our selected travel agency, and please note that no personal bookings are permitted—Finance will not process reimbursements for flights booked using personal credit cards, so we kindly ask that you respect this arrangement.

Will employees be required to share rooms? No, all employees will have private, single-occupancy rooms. 

What should I bring to the retreat?

• Comfortable clothing for both indoor and outdoor activities 

• Athletic wear if you plan on participating in physical activities 

• Appropriate Swimwear  

• A jacket or sweater for cooler weather 

• Personal toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, etc.) 

• A notebook and pen for any sessions or activities 

• Any personal medications (and ensure they’re labeled clearly) 

We’ll provide all necessary retreat materials, but feel free to bring a water bottle and any personal items that will make you comfortable. 

 

Will meals be provided? Yes, all meals, snacks, and drinks will be provided during the retreat. The schedule includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with designated snack breaks in between. If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies, etc.), please inform the logistics committee by October 1, 2025, so we can accommodate your needs.

What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies? Please notify Logistics as soon as possible so we can ensure that appropriate options are available to meet your dietary needs. 

What activities are planned for the retreat? The retreat will include: 

• Team-building exercises and ice-breaker games 

• Professional development workshops and presentations 

• Relaxation and wellness activities (e.g., yoga, meditation) 

• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions 

• Free time for socializing, hiking, or exploring 

• Evening events (e.g., team dinner, bonfire) 

A detailed agenda will be shared before the retreat, so you know exactly what to expect. 

Do I need to participate in every activity? Participation in all activities is encouraged but not mandatory. We understand that some employees may prefer quieter activities or need time to relax. Please feel free to opt out of any uncomfortable activities, but we hope you’ll make the most of the experience and engage with your colleagues. 

Is there a dress code for the retreat? We want everyone to feel comfortable and relaxed during our retreat, so our dress code will be casual and informal—no need to dress more formally than necessary. Please wear what makes you feel at ease and ready to participate in both indoor and outdoor activities.
Examples of appropriate attire include:

• Jeans, khakis, or casual pants

• T-shirts, polos, or casual tops

• Comfortable shoes or sneakers

• Light sweaters or jackets for cooler indoor spaces

What to avoid:
Please refrain from wearing clothing with offensive graphics or slogans, swimwear (unless specified for an activity), or anything you wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing in a casual work environment. For visual reference, please see the sample photos below:





Will there be time for downtime or personal relaxation? Yes! We’ve scheduled downtime during the retreat to allow everyone to recharge, explore the venue, or enjoy quiet time. There will be designated periods for relaxation between group activities.

What happens if I need to leave early or have an emergency? If you need to leave early or have an emergency, please notify HR immediately. We will work with you to accommodate your situation. Emergency contact information will be available at the retreat check-in desk.

How do I get to the retreat location? Please refer to the travel instructions sent out prior to the retreat. Please contact the logistics committee for assistance if you need transportation or are looking for carpooling options.

Are accommodations provided? Yes, the retreat includes overnight accommodation for all employees. Room assignments will be shared upon check-in. If you have any special rooming requests, please notify the logistics committee.

Can I bring my family or friends to the retreat? The retreat sessions are intended for employees only. However, if you’d like to bring a loved one, they are welcome to join you at the resort, but they cannot attend the retreat sessions or dinner events.

What if I have a special request or accommodation need? Please contact Logistics before the retreat if you require any accommodation (e.g., mobility aids, special seating, etc.). We strive to make the retreat accessible and comfortable for everyone.

Will there be any social or networking opportunities? Absolutely! The retreat includes several opportunities to socialize and network with colleagues from different departments. There will be group activities, casual networking events, and free time to connect with peers.

What should I do if I have questions or need assistance during the retreat? If you have any questions during the retreat, please visit the retreat information desk or contact committee members. Our team will be available to assist you throughout the event.

Can I take photos or share social media posts from the retreat? Yes, you are welcome to take photos and share your experiences, but please adhere to our social media policy outlined in the employee handbook. Be mindful of others’ privacy, and if there are specific moments or activities where photography is restricted, staff will be notified beforehand. When sharing on social media, please use our designated hashtag: #GW2025Retreat.   

Will there be a follow-up after the retreat? Yes, there will be a post-retreat survey to gather feedback. Your input will help us improve future retreats and ensure they are as beneficial as possible. Stay tuned for more details on how to participate.

Can employees extend their stay at the resort? Yes, employees are welcome to extend their stay at the resort at their own expense.  Room cost $249 per night with a $45 resort fee and taxes. Please inform the logistics committee in advance if you plan to do so. 

Will staff be permitted to utilize airport parking during the retreat? Staff use of airport parking during the retreat will be considered on a case-by-case basis and requires prior approval from your immediate site director or direct manager. At this time, we are unable to provide airport parking spaces for employees. However, to support your travel needs, we will provide an Uber business code for round-trip transportation to the designated departure airport. If you have questions or would like to request approval for airport parking, please contact your supervisor directly. Thank you for your understanding.

For employees interested in daily prayer or meditation during the retreat. A private space will be available at the resort for prayer and meditation. 

How will staff get to the retreat location? All staff members will be provided transportation to and from the Walt Disney Swan Resort for arrival and departure. 

Is Disney a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community?  Orlando just scored a perfect score for LGBTQ protections from HRC.

Can I visit the Disney theme Parks? Yes, just not during the sessions. To purchase specially priced Walt Disney World® Meeting/Convention Theme Park tickets, CLICK HERE or call 407-566-5600 and provide group code G10118907.

Is Disney a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community? 

How Will Pay Be Managed for Non-Exempt (Hourly) Employees Attending the All-Staff Retreat? To help set expectations, here’s how pay will be handled for hourly employees during the retreat:

• You’ll be paid for your regular work schedule each day of the event (e.g. 8am–5pm), regardless of where you’re traveling from.

• Travel time that falls outside your normal work hours will also be paid, and includes travel time from the airport to the hotel.

  • Example:  If you arrive at the airport at 6am, you’ll be paid starting at 6am.

  • Example:  If your return flight lands at 8pm, you’ll be paid from 5pm (end of shift) to 8pm.

  • Example:  If you are traveling and do not arrive at the hotel until 6pm, you will be paid until 6pm.

• If you’re driving to and from the retreat, travel time outside of normal hours is paid.

• Travel between your home and the airport/train station is considered normal commuting and is not paid.

• Retreat activities after 5pm (such as dinners or social events) are unpaid.  If core programming of the retreat should extend beyond 5pm, you will be compensated for that time.

• Travel time is paid at your regular hourly rate, unless it qualifies for overtime based on your state’s laws.

  • (e.g., CA pays OT after 8 hours/day; most other states after 40 hours/week)

• Please record any travel time outside normal hours accurately on your timesheet.

• If you have questions about your particular situation and what should count towards your paid travel time, please contact hr@genesysworks.org.