How do we begin to explain the importance of having a permanent home for Hoffman’s signature course and follow-up graduate activities? White Sulphur Springs, which was acquired by a generous, visionary donor for the exclusive use of the Hoffman Institute, has become a vital part of the Institute’s mission and vision. Dedicated to transformative adult education, spiritual growth, and the personal dimensions of leadership, having White Sulphur Springs as our main campus allows for expanded course offerings, flexibility, and creating a safe, beautiful place where participants can open their hearts and minds for powerful healing. And though it is our main site, we offer Hoffman courses at East Coast venues that meet the same expectations and aesthetics that we value at White Sulphur Springs.
White Sulphur Springs was established as a healing resort in the mid-1800s. Set on 45 acres of natural beauty, it became the home of the Hoffman Process and Hoffman graduate courses in 2000. In order to keep the lights on and pay the bills, it was necessary to continue commercial operations by hosting events and tourists who were making their way through California’s premier wine region. Weddings and other celebrations were sometimes squeezed in between a Process beginning or ending. Finally, a decision was made to end our commercial ventures and maintain the site strictly for Hoffman courses.
That meant taking a deep breath and stepping into the faith that the Hoffman Process would grow and serve many more students than before. “As a not-for-profit organization, having our own campus has allowed us to expand our course offerings,” said Liza Ingrasci, CEO and Director of Hoffman Institute Foundation. “We have nearly three times more enrollments and course dates now than we had 15 years ago. The chance we took then has paid off.”
Along with a leap of faith, the property has evolved into a place for deep healing and spiritual growth due, in part, to many generous gifts and donations from individuals and Process classes. The Forgiveness Garden is one such gift, as is the Labyrinth near the magnificent redwood grove. As you can see from the before and after pictures of the Forgiveness Garden – transformed from a defunct swimming pool – we have come a long way. It is a constant reminder of the power of transformation.
As the Hoffman Institute celebrates 15 years of healing retreats at WSS, we look to the future for ways to continue the legacy of personal growth and healing at this historic site. This year’s Fund-A-Need campaign will ensure that generations of Hoffman students to come have a peaceful, healing retreat site – to come home to themselves, and find love in their lives again.