Support military widows and families of the fallen

Holbrook Farms, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of fallen military, will host its first-ever Hearts for Holbrook event on Saturday, September 13, 2025. The event will feature an exciting day of community engagement, fundraising, and celebration, with a focus on continuing the mission to provide free retreats for military widows and sisters of the fallen.

Founded 11 years ago, Holbrook Farms fills a vital need for military survivors by providing free, fully funded retreats for those who have lost a spouse or sibling in military service. The retreat experience, held at the serene Holbrook Farms facility located just south of Detroit Lakes, brings survivors together for a week of connection, community, and healing. 

“Grief recovery is a lifelong journey for families who have lost loved ones in service to our country,” said Sarah Merwin, Executive Director of Holbrook Farms. “Our retreats offer a peaceful, supportive space for military widows and sisters of the fallen to heal, connect with others who understand their pain, and gain tools for moving forward after loss.”

The Hearts for Holbrook event will culminate in a LIVE broadcast throughout the day on all of Holbrook Farms’ social media platforms, featuring stories of impact, music, and special guests. The event will also feature a 5K Fun Run/Walk at Holbrook Farms, a car show, and an Open House from 1-3 p.m., giving the community an opportunity to tour the retreat facilities and learn more about the organization’s mission.

A Field of Flags display will honor the fallen and their families, providing a visual reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Donations raised throughout the day will directly support Holbrook Farms’ ongoing retreats and programs.

Event details

• Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025

• Location: Holbrook Farms, 51383 Bucks Mill Road, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

Event schedule

• 5K Fun Run/Walk – 10 a.m.

• Open House with Live Music – 1-3 p.m.

• Troy Boy’s Mud & Muscle Car Show – 1-3:30 p.m.

• LIVE on Social Media – All Day

For more information about the event, the mission of Holbrook Farms, or how to get involved, please visit www.holbrookfarms.org. To speak with Executive Director Sarah Merwin, contact her directly at (218) 234-2406 or via email at ExecutiveDirector@holbrookfarms.org.