“One evening, I sat by the lake alone, watching the still water reflect the early stars. I had not felt that kind of stillness in years. No agenda, no output, no urgency. Just being. That moment changed how I hold space for others now—whether in a prison classroom, a community studio, or a counseling circle. Because I was held so gently at Feathered Pipe, I can offer that same holding more honestly
to those I serve.”
~ Baby Kramer, 2025 scholarship recipient
Dear Friends,
When the days are short and the news is grim, I also remember that there is indeed light and there is indeed hope. As soon as I turn my attention to the things that matter, like community and kindness, I’m overcome with love and gratitude. Thank you for being a part of the Feathered Pipe Family. After over 50 years on the edge— and by no shortage of miracles and hard work by this community—the Feathered Pipe Ranch and Foundation are
here, holding space and programs to support positive change.
As we get close to the end of this year, it’s a great time to start making plans for personal development and inspiration in 2026. With the celebration of Feathered Pipe’s 50th anniversary, I had the opportunity to reunite in person and virtually with hundreds of people whose lives were impacted positively and existentially from their experiences at and connections through Feathered Pipe. With these strong testimonials, I feel more confident than ever in recommending the gift of a retreat at the
Ranch for yourself (or someone else).
2026 Retreat Programs at Feathered Pipe Ranch - Registration is Open!
The Feathered Pipe retreat lineup for 2026 includes a wonderful variety of options, from teacher trainings and programs that go deep into specific topics to mindfulness, music, and play. There is truly something for all levels, interests, and abilities. Several workshops are already waitlisted, so it’s a good idea to sign up soon to guarantee your spot.
2026 Feathered Pipe Scholarship Program
 Through the years we have seen how meaningful the Feathered Pipe Scholarship Program is for recipients as well as for those who donate to support those in need. We’ve made it a priority to keep increasing the number and amount of scholarships available each year.
Feathered Pipe Foundation plans to offer at least $60,000 of scholarships towards eligible workshops in 2026. The application period will open February 2, 2026. Scholarships apply only to new registrations after receiving the award. Learn more here.
Our end-of-year fundraising campaign is focused on raising $60,000 to fund this essential program. We’ve already received $15,000 from one donor to kick us off! Would you like to donate to help fund this worthy program?
LOVEfest 2025
December 14, 2025 at 9am PT/Noon ET we will hold our annual free online LOVEfest. Guaranteed to brighten your day, it’s a great opportunity to connect virtually and share the love and community around the globe. In the hour(ish) long meetup, we will share some highlights of the 50th anniversary season and look towards what’s next. As an extra special treat this year, Jillian Pransky will guide us in meditation. Register here.
Look forward to seeing you soon!
With love and gratitude,
Crystal Water
Executive Director of Feathered Pipe Foundation
*Featured image credits: Kai J. Lee
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 Managing Your “Mental Newsroom” – David Kantra
It’s not uncommon for each day to come with its own lineup of small troubles—an ache in your back, a careless comment from someone, a mistake you wish you could undo, a bit of unsettling news. These moments are real, and they sting. But they can also take on a life far bigger than they deserve. Before long, it can feel as though one of these minor setbacks has seized the headline spot in your personal daily newspaper.
The trick to bringing things back into perspective is learning to become the editor of that newspaper.
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 Feathered Pipe Forever Fund: Ensuring Long-term Sustainability
The Feathered Pipe Forever Fund exists to make sure the Ranch remains a sanctuary for learning, healing, and connection far into the future. It gives us the flexibility to act when conditions align, the resources to move forward on essential projects without delay, and the resilience to weather economic swings with grace. Every gift—large, small, or somewhere in between—helps us care for this magical place with the foresight it deserves.
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Contact Us |
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Feathered Pipe Foundation
P.O. Box 1682
Helena, MT 59624
(406) 442-8196
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