Join us for our 7th annual all-inclusive retreat on Star Island
An All Ages/Family Vacation With A Purpose
Building Bridges is an all-ages, light-hearted, and inclusive seven-day conference grounded in Unitarian Universalist values. We celebrate diversity, freedom of exploration, and a sense of wonder. Our mission is to forge and strengthen the connections between our families and conferees-new and old.
All are welcome to join us as we spend a week enjoying the beauty of Star Island, located off the coast of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, while exploring and connecting with our spirituality, ourselves, and each other.
Building Bridges strives to have something for everyone, and we encourage folks to participate as much or as little as they would like. During morning programming, adults (18+) can choose between our two workshops: SoulCollage® or Connecting through Sound: A Musical Exploration. Each afternoon, adults will also have the option to explore other spiritual practices such as a crystal workshop, yoga, meditation, dance, music, etc.
We also offer youth programming in the mornings for babies, kids and youth ages 0-18 and childcare for kids 0-5 in the afternoons. Mornings in our youth programs are spent with group bonding, telling stories, singing, laughing, and enjoying nature on both land and sea, including island field trips to the Marine Lab, Music Barn, Art Barn, beach, and neighboring islands.
All are welcome to join us as we spend a week enjoying the beauty of Star Island, located off the coast of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, while exploring and connecting with our spirituality, ourselves, and each other.
Building Bridges strives to have something for everyone, and we encourage folks to participate as much or as little as they would like. During morning programming, adults (18+) can choose between our two workshops: SoulCollage® or Connecting through Sound: A Musical Exploration. Each afternoon, adults will also have the option to explore other spiritual practices such as a crystal workshop, yoga, meditation, dance, music, etc.
We also offer youth programming in the mornings for babies, kids and youth ages 0-18 and childcare for kids 0-5 in the afternoons. Mornings in our youth programs are spent with group bonding, telling stories, singing, laughing, and enjoying nature on both land and sea, including island field trips to the Marine Lab, Music Barn, Art Barn, beach, and neighboring islands.
Meet the 2026 Leadership Team
(Pictured below from left to right)
April Rosario - Conference Co-Chair & Youth Director
Liv Radue - Conference Co-Chair & Connecting through Sound Leader
Lori McNally - Treasurer
Beth Manchester-Howell - Registrar
Katie Gullotti - On-Island Support
Vandy Leigh - SoulCollage® Leader
This year’s registration will start January 15, 2026. Please contact Building Bridges registrar Beth Manchester-Howell with any questions at [email protected].