Jacksonville residents and those from the surrounding area headed to Elijah’s Retreat for its Fall Festival on Saturday. The event served as a fundraiser and celebration of 10 years in business. (Jessica T. Payne/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Jacksonville — This year marks the 10th anniversary of Elijah’s Retreat, and owners Cheryl and Jason Torres celebrated with a Fall Festival on Saturday.

Elijah’s Retreat, which caters to children with autism, was founded by Jeff and Kathy Moore when their grandson Elijah was diagnosed with autism.

When Jeff had to put the property up for sale, the Torres family stepped in to continue his mission.

Asked what compelled them to take on this work, Cheryl Torres answered, “Our family spent time in prayer asking for a ‘tangible sign’ that this is God’s will. Upon first visiting the retreat we walked into the barn and saw a large sign on the wall that said ‘Torres,’ our last name. A real tangible sign!”

Cheryl’s background in foster care and adoption gives her years of experience nurturing attachments between children and families.

“When we discovered how Elijah’s Retreat provides a sanctuary for families facing autism, we were so moved and knew we had to keep it going” she said.

Elijah’s Retreat, which is approximately 2 miles south of Jacksonville, is a 50-acre family experience that allows children to enjoy hayrides, feeding farm animals, fishing, bird watching, stargazing and finding eggs in chicken coops. There are also miniature equine therapy sessions.

At $45 a night and a $30 reservation fee, the retreat provides a two-bedroom cabin with full kitchen, washer and dryer, bonfire pit, grill, hammocks and amenities for families that struggle to get away due to traveling with an autistic child and expenses.

The Fall Festival is one way the retreat raises money to keep costs at a minimum for families touched by autism who are looking to unplug and build lasting memories in a sensory-friendly environment.

Activities included bean bag toss, football throw, petting zoo, face painting, soccer shoot, bounce houses, goat scramble, hayrides and tug of war contest.

A silent and live auction included Houston Ballet tickets to the Nutcracker with autographed ballet slipper, Dallas Cowboys self-guided stadium and locker room tour, dove hunt for four in Argentina, American flag made from retired fire department hoses, handmade wood dominoes with the Texas State Seal donated by state Sen. Robert Nichols and more.

Jacksonville Mayor Randy Gorham stepped in as auctioneer while Boogie Butt Productions provided entertainment. Several vendors were also on hand for the fundraiser. Admission to the Fall Festival was free.

For more information regarding Elijah’s Retreat, booking cabins and volunteer opportunities, visit www.elijahsretreat.com or call 713-294-0690.