our story
The story of Fairhaven has unfolded slowly over decades of prayer, provision and quiet faithfulness.
From the beginning, there was a simple desire: to create a place of refuge for those following Jesus. A space to step away from the noise and remember what matters most.
Before any land was purchased, the vision was already being held in prayer. Carried by many hands over many years. Nurtured with generosity, patience and a steady sense of calling.
In 1979, that vision was first entrusted to Dr. Charles Shepson, alongside a Canadian board, he prayed for a place where people could come and rest.
Years later, Len and Fay Frank responded to that same invitation, leaving their ministry in Alberta to help lead what would become Fairhaven in the North Okanagan, British Columbia.
In 2000, God provided land on Silver Star Mountain - 167 acres of forest, overlooking Vernon and the waters of Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes - an expansive, peaceful setting that felt uniquely suited for rest.
What has followed has often been described as a “miracle on the mountain.”
From land acquisition to development, from early cottages to leadership transitions, each step has carried its own quiet testimony of God’s provision.
Development began in 2001. By 2003, the first guest cottages were ready to welcome visitors. Since then, Fairhaven has continued to grow as a place of rest, renewal and restoration. And over the years, thousands have come to this mountain retreat, each one adding to the unfolding story.
The invitation remains the same:
Come away and rest.
Fairhaven is a safe and welcoming place for all followers of Jesus, wherever you are in your journey of faith. We believe rest is not only for those experiencing burnout or exhaustion - it is also a gift and practice that helps sustain us before we reach that point.
our values
integrity
We honour confidentiality, trust and accountability, conduct ourselves with professionalism, steward resources responsibly, and manage risk with humility and creativity.
hospitality
We create an atmosphere of beauty, safety and rest that values each guest and honours their unique needs.
community
We foster renewal and growth by collaborating with individuals and organizations, remaining responsive to the changing needs of Christian leaders.
communication
We listen attentively to God and to others, and communicate with clarity, consistency, grace and integrity.
our team
Sheldon Schmidt
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Sheldon joined Fairhaven in 2025, bringing with him decades of leadership experience in both corporate and ministry settings. He has played key roles in organizations as they’ve navigated periods of growth and change, fostering cultures marked by accountability, transparency, mutual respect and collaborative leadership.
Passionate about Fairhaven’s mission, Sheldon is committed to creating an environment where guests can encounter rest and renewal.
Sheldon is a runner, hiker & skier, who knows that when his body is moving, his mind is peaceful. He can be found frequently at Ratio, his favourite coffee place in Vernon.
Executive Director
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Ken Koshman joined Fairhaven Ministries in 2023 as the Facilities Manager, bringing with him over 40 years of experience in construction, along with his background as a heavy-duty mechanic. His extensive knowledge, versatility, and ability to tackle almost any challenge have been a true asset to the property.
Known as a bit of a “MacGyver,” Ken has a natural gift for finding practical solutions and making things work, all while approaching changes with wisdom, consistency, and careful execution.
Ken’s relaxed and easygoing nature makes him a valued part of the Fairhaven community. He has a genuine servant heart and finds joy in using his skills to bless others and give back. When he’s not working, Ken enjoys spending time outdoors camping and hiking, and making memories with his family, his wife of 30 years, and his two grown sons, and newly added daughter in law. His love for the outdoors, people, and helping wherever he can reflects the heart he brings to all he does.
Facilities Manager
Ken Koshman
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Michelle is the newest member of the Fairhaven team, joining in April of 2026. Her work experience varies from a youth support worker to payroll administrator. For over 15 years she developed and lead teams through both stable and times of transition. Michelle has a degree in Social Work and a certificate in Human Resources. She is motivated by doing her part to ensure guests, clients, customers and colleagues feel encouraged and have a positive experience.
She spent many years living and working in the Lower Mainland of BC, but is grateful she chose to move back to the Okanagan in 2022. She is thankful for the daily dose of God’s greatness and beauty each time she drives onto Fairhaven property. A comforting verse is Jeremiah 29: “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
When you meet Michelle, she may have some funny stories about her cats, chickens, and the newest member of the “Farmily”, Bruce the dog.
Operations Coordinator
Michelle Onderwater
our spaces
Nestled amidst the cedars of Silver Star Mountain, Fairhaven is situated on 167 acres overlooking Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes near Vernon, British Columbia, Canada.
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At the heart of Fairhaven, the Charles Shepson Lodge offers warm, welcoming spaces to gather, reflect, and rest - all framed by sweeping views of Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes.
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Fairhaven’s six private cottages offer a quiet, comfortable place to settle in - surrounded by forest or with stunning lake views, each cottage is thoughtfully equipped for rest in every season.
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Fairhaven’s six fully serviced campsites offer a peaceful way to stay close to nature, with the comfort of practical amenities and easy access to the lodge.
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Fairhaven offers quiet trails, sweeping lake views, and space to slow down and rest in the beauty of creation.
land acknowledgement
We acknowledge that Fairhaven is located on traditional First Nation lands, and we do so with the utmost of respect for those that cared for this forest before our time.
frequently
asked questions
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Fairhaven is a non-denominational, independent Christian retreat centre that serves individuals, couples, families, and ministry leaders seeking rest, renewal and spiritual growth. We believe sustained health requires intentional rest, and we provide a peaceful environment where guests can reconnect with God, themselves and others.
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At Fairhaven, retreating can take various forms. It usually involves stepping away from daily responsibilities to enter into Fairhaven’s uniquely peaceful and natural setting. Typically, guests come to experience a stay free of programming and scheduling; you are welcome to retreat in a way that benefits you on a self-guided basis.
You (along with others in your party, if any) will stay in a private cottage and have shared access to our beautiful lodge. Each cottage has its own fireplace and beautiful view, and our lodge has library, big, comfy chairs and a massive stone fireplace that makes it easy to spend hours with a good book, a journal or even just a mug of something warm while you appreciate the surrounding landscape.
Hike, bike or wander the trails. Or, get off the property and explore all that the Okanagan valley has to offer.
Come solo, or bring your people. Fairhaven works just as well if you’re looking for solitude or if you want to gather with friends and family.
Our guests frequently tell us that while staying at Fairhaven something special happens. The act of intentionally making time, seeking space and assuming a praying posture creates an environment conducive for the voice of God to be heard.
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Each cottage is a fully furnished, four-season home away from home, complete with a gas fireplace, covered porch, bedding, and linens. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking and meal preparation (not including food). The coffee maker uses ground coffee and/or Keurig pods. Laundry facilities are available in the lodge. Wi-Fi is intentionally not provided in the cottages to encourage a true retreat experience, although Wi-Fi is available in the lodge. When booking, guests may request a preferred cottage, and we will do our best to accommodate those requests.
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No. Guests bring their own groceries and prepare meals in their cottage or dine at nearby restaurants. Daily housekeeping is not provided during your stay; however, cottages are thoroughly cleaned before arrival and include extra linens. Guests are responsible for basic housekeeping and disposing of garbage and recycling in designated areas.
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Pets are not permitted at Fairhaven. This policy helps us maintain a comfortable environment for all guests and protects the natural ecosystem of our property.
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Yes. Fairhaven offers six full-service RV sites with water, electrical, and sewer hookups. RV guests have 24-hour access to the lodge, including bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Outdoor camping is not available, and open fires are prohibited due to wildfire risk. Propane barbecues are permitted at RV sites.
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Yes, see Counselling for more information.
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Yes, we have the Fireplace Room and Gathering Room, which hold up to 40 people, as well as the Library, which can accommodate 6 people. These spaces can be booked for your group event. Please fill out this form and our team will be in touch with more details.
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Yes, Fairhaven operates year-round. Located at a higher elevation, the property is typically a few degrees cooler than Vernon. Winters can bring significant snowfall and occasional icy conditions, while every season offers unique opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the property.
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Yes. Fairhaven's 167-acre forested property is home to local wildlife, including bears. Wildlife encounters are uncommon, but guests are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings. Bear spray is available at the Lodge for guests to borrow as a precaution.
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As a non-profit organization, Fairhaven works to make retreats accessible for pastors, missionaries and other full-time ministry workers. Through partnerships with denominations and ministry organizations, eligible guests may qualify for reduced rates. If your organization does not currently partner with Fairhaven, we would be pleased to explore that possibility. Please send enquiries to sheldon@fairhavencanada.com.
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Fairhaven is a registered Canadian non-profit, charitable organization and relies on the generosity of donors to maintain its facilities and subsidize guest services. Tax receipts are provided for all donations. See Donation for more information.
partnerships
We are grateful for the growing number of organizations who want to make the rest Fairhaven offers more accessible for their people.
If you are a ministry, organization or leadership team interested in exploring a partnership with Fairhaven, we would love to hear from you.
These partnerships are simple in nature, but meaningful in intention: to create pathways for leaders and staff to step away, slow down and be renewed.
Our partners receive preferred rates throughout the year, along with early access to seasonal offerings and updates.
More than a benefit, it is an invitation: to make space for rest before your people reach the point of depletion.
When leaders are given room to breathe, they return differently. More whole.
We hope Fairhaven can be one of those places for your organization.
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