Mission Wealth’s 2026 Retreat: Growing Together in Chicago

Every year, our annual retreat gives us an opportunity to step away from our daily routines and reconnect with what makes Mission Wealth special — our people, our purpose, and the impact we create together.

This year, nearly 200 team members gathered in Chicago for several memorable days filled with collaboration, learning, service, celebration, and genuine connection. From thought-provoking conversations and team experiences to giving back alongside an incredible local organization, our 2026 retreat reflected the culture that continues to drive Mission Wealth forward. With nearly 40% of attendees attending their first Mission Wealth retreat, the week provided a meaningful opportunity to build new relationships, strengthen existing ones, and experience firsthand what makes our firm so special.

Reconnecting in the Windy City

Our retreat began with something we value most at Mission Wealth: connection. As team members arrived in Chicago from across the country, the first evening was dedicated to reconnecting, catching up, and spending meaningful time together outside of our day-to-day routines.

We gathered for an opening night dinner in the Chicago Athletic Association’s iconic game room, where teammates shared conversations, enjoyed friendly games, and strengthened the relationships that make our culture so special. It was the perfect way to kick off an unforgettable week together.

Learning and Investing in Growth

Day two focused on learning, collaboration, and shared experiences. The morning began with breakfast followed by our annual firm meeting, where leadership reflected on Mission Wealth’s continued growth, celebrated key milestones from the past year, and shared an exciting vision for the future.

In the afternoon, team members explored Chicago through a variety of activities and experiences. Some embraced friendly competition during our pickleball tournament, while others enjoyed local excursions, including the Chicago Fair Lady Boat Tour, Chicago Architecture Walking Tour, and the Chicago Athletic Association History Tour.

The day concluded with a unique underground dining experience at Untitled Supper Club, where great food and meaningful conversation created another memorable opportunity for connection.

Giving Back and Celebrating Together

Our final full day began with one of the most meaningful parts of the retreat: giving back to the local community.

During our annual volunteer experience, nearly 200 Mission Wealth team members partnered with UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago for a day of service focused on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and strengthening the surrounding community.

Together, our team:

• Beautified outdoor spaces
• Prepared baked treats
• Assembled care items for local organizations
• Created thoughtful gifts for hospital patients and shelter animals throughout the Greater Chicago community

For more than 75 years, UCP Seguin has empowered individuals with developmental disabilities and now serves more than 1,800 adults and 150 children throughout the Chicago area. From supportive group homes that foster independence to transition programs, job support, and entrepreneurial training, their impact continues to change lives every day.

We’re incredibly grateful to UCP Seguin for welcoming our team and for the important work they do to empower individuals and strengthen communities every day.

After volunteering, teams spent the afternoon connecting through group activities and enjoying time together before one final surprise awaited that evening.

To close out the retreat, team members were treated to a private evening at Adler Planetarium featuring dinner, museum access, breathtaking skyline views, and a truly unforgettable atmosphere. It was the perfect setting to celebrate another incredible year together.

One of the evening’s most special moments was announcing our 2026 MVP Award winner: Tina Kunze. Tina’s dedication, commitment, and incredible impact on attracting top talent and supporting our firm’s continued growth over the past year truly embody the heart of Mission Wealth. Congratulations, Tina, on this well-deserved recognition!

Looking Ahead

Our annual retreat is more than just a gathering — it’s a reflection of who we are as a firm. It’s a chance to learn from one another, invest in our relationships, give back to the communities around us, and celebrate the incredible people who make Mission Wealth what it is.

Thank you to everyone who helped make our Chicago retreat such a meaningful experience. We can’t wait for what’s ahead.