Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
The full program, including our 4-day French retreat, coach transfers to and from Paris, all meals and beverages is $5,200 USD.
What about the post retreat programs?
Post-Event Community
[Free]
As community people, we know that real connection doesn’t end when the event does—it evolves. That’s why you’ll join a dedicated space where conversations continue, ideas grow, and the support never stops.
Expect a steady stream of shared wisdom, real talk, and practical resources from people who get it. Whether you need fresh inspiration, a gut check on a new idea, or just a place to celebrate wins (big and small), this is where you’ll find your people—long after the retreat ends.
Quarterly Peer Groups
[Free - one-year commitment]
Want to go deeper? Join our Quarterly Peer Groups, where you’ll meet virtually every quarter with fellow community leaders and a dedicated facilitator to swap wisdom, troubleshoot challenges, and keep growing together.
And because some challenges need a personal touch, you’ll also get 1:1 expert mentorship matchups throughout the year. Whether you’re facing a tricky situation or just need a fresh perspective, you’ll always have the right person to help you navigate it. Think of it as your secret weapon for leveling up.
Who is this for?
Community Council is designed for Directors of Community, Executives, Founders, and seasoned community professionals who are looking to refine their skills, deepen their impact, and connect with peers who understand the nuances of community building at scale.
When are applications due?
Application Deadline: May 15, 2025. All second round applicants will have a 30-minute interview with the Community Council team. Apply now!
When Will I hear back?
You will hear from our team whether you have been invited to an interview or not no later than June 15th, 2025, and we’ll be conducting interviews between June 16th and June 27th.
When and where is the retreat?
We will gather October 14-17th at Chateau de Courtmor
What’s included in our 4-day retreat:
Transport to and from Paris.
3 nights single occupancy room with en suite bathroom.
All food and drinks at the chateau
What’s not included:
Airfare to and from France
Will there be wine?
The only BYOB of this event is Bring Your Own Beret. We’ve got the wine (it is France, after all), plus beer, a few signature cocktails, and thoughtful mocktails for those who prefer their drinks sans buzz.
This isn’t a dry event, but it’s also not a wine-fueled free-for-all. Evenings are for unwinding, and days are for deep conversations—so we’ll keep the drinks flowing responsibly, ensuring you wake up ready to soak in all the good stuff.
Will there be WIFI?
Yes! The château is getting fiber internet installed this summer. Even without it, you’ll find strong signal spots around the grounds if you need to connect.
That said, we encourage immersion over multitasking—it’s the kind of experience that’s best enjoyed with your phone on silent and your OOO firmly set. Snap your photos, share a moment or two, and if you do need to take a call or hop online, we’ll help you find a quiet corner.
What can I expect at the retreat?
Expect deep conversations, practical workshops, and peer-to-peer learning in a stunning location. This is not just another conference—it’s a highly curated experience where the right people are in the room, ensuring every interaction is valuable.
How do I apply?
Click Apply to Join and complete a short application. We curate attendees to ensure a diverse and valuable mix of community professionals.
can I bring a co-founder or colleague?
Yes! You’re welcome to apply with one co-founder or colleague. However, to ensure a dynamic and engaging experience for everyone, you’ll likely be placed in separate working groups.
We design the retreat to foster new connections and fresh perspectives, so while you’ll both be part of the same overall experience, expect to engage with a wide range of fellow leaders rather than sticking together the whole time. Don’t worry—you’ll have plenty of time to reconnect and share insights throughout the retreat!
What is the Cancellation policy?
Community Council is a small, close-knit gathering, and every participant matters. We know that sometimes plans change, so here’s how cancellations work:
Before August 1, 2025 → Refund, minus $1,600 for costs we’ve already covered.
Before September 1, 2025 → Refund, minus $2,400 for costs already incurred.
After September 15, 2025 → No refunds, as we’ll have fully committed to planning for your participation.
We’ll process refunds within 14 days of your request. If you can’t make it, we’ll miss you! Just a heads-up—your invitation is non-transferable.
Is the event accessible?
We’re committed to making sure everyone feels welcome and supported. We’ll be asking all accepted participants about accessibility needs in advance so we can make thoughtful accommodations. If there’s something you need to fully participate, we’ll work with you to make it happen. The Château does have steps at each entrance, but ramps will be arranged as needed, and there is a ground-floor room that is wheelchair accessible.
what if I have dietary restrictions?
We’ve got you. All accepted participants will receive an intake form so we can learn what you need (and what you really don’t want). Our chef, the amazing Linda Sarris, is crafting a food program that’s flexible, thoughtful, and delicious—no sad salads or mystery meals here.