B R O T H E R S    U N I T E d    N E T W O R K

The Brothers United Winter Retreat is an event that was developed and specifically targeted to celebrate, affirm and address a wide range of topics within the African-American/Black Same Gender Loving / Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community.  Historically the retreats were held once a year in December from 1997-2006. In 2014-16 Nashville CARES received funding through the Elton John AIDS Foundation to reignite this effort. Currently, the Brothers United Network continues hosting the event with the help of participant registrations & sponsors. The 16th  Retreat was held in 2019 and we are excited to host one a month earlier than usual Friday - Sunday, November 15-17, 2024. 

The atmosphere is very relaxed and gives participants a chance to explore subjects of identity, spirituality, and sexuality. It is facilitated in a non-threatening and culturally sensitive forum. At times it can be entertaining, provocative and emotional. Although the majority of participants live in Tennessee, we welcome friends from out of state to join us for these historical gatherings. We're expecting between 50-75 males.

Each gathering the retreat has a theme. This theme helps the Retreat Committee to guide the overall concept and direction of the workshops and activities for the weekend. It is also a time celebrate and highlight the outreach work of the entire network of Brothers United chapters devoted to stopping both the spread of HIV, as well as to empower, embrace and help provide a better quality of life for those living with or impacted by the virus or other issues within the LGBTQ community.