Duggan Days was started by Danny Duggan as “Spring Break Retreat” over 20 years ago. Danny’s goal was to provide a few days of Spring Break fun for kids who wouldn’t get to be with family and friends over the mini vacation time and allow house parents time to just enjoy watching their kids be spoiled and have fun.
In its early days, the fun was built around a circus theme; cowboys and an authentic chuck wagon fireside meal; water sports and a huge water slide enjoyed by kids and staff alike; mystery dinners; and races to eat the largest banana split in Texas. Then, as well as now, office staff takes on all the work of planning, cooking and hosting to allow the parents a break. The days are filled with crafting, sports, teamwork, games, personal reflection, a movie, and worship.
After Danny’s death in 2011, it became just a fun memory until it was brought back to campus in 2017. Now, each March, “Duggan Days” remembers and honors Danny’s wish to provide the staff and kids a few days of growing closer together in a one-of-a-kind Spring Break.
Photos courtesy of Valerie Valdez