Nature Retreat at Blue Lotus Center

Join Independence First staff for a refreshing outdoor adventure at the beautiful Blue Lotus Center.
Centrally located between Ozaukee and Washington Counties, we want individuals with disabilities to have an opportunity to enjoy the benefits that nature provides. 

ADA accessible bathrooms are available. 

Transportation is not provided. 

*** RSVP is required by August 1st! ***

 When: August 10, 2025 from 10:00AM - 2:00PM 

Where: Blue Lotus, 5501 Co Hwy M, West Bend, WI 53095 

This retreat will include an opportunity to get out on the water with a paddle boat or adaptable kayaks, fish off the wheelchair accessible dock (catch and release only), enjoy a light picnic lunch, relax in a hammock or comfortable chairs, walk through beautiful gardens to enjoy the flowers, hike a trail and see some wildlife, play yard games, explore the outdoor sound garden, and a chance to make new friends! 

To RSVP (space is limited) and to request accommodations, contact: Tonya Villwock at 414-226-8138 or tvillwock@independencefirst.org 

Reasonable Accommodations
Independence First is committed to providing the highest degree of accessibility when offering agency-sponsored events. Please notify Tonya Villwock at 414-226-8138 V/Relay or tvillwock@independencefirst.org with your disability-related accommodation requests by August 1st, 2025. We will do our best to honor accommodation requests made after this date. 

Environmental Chemical Sensitivities 
For the safety and comfort of those with chemical and environmental sensitivities, Independence First requests that when attending agency-sponsored events, please refrain from using any perfumed products such as scented soaps, deodorants, perfumes, colognes and heavily scented fabric softeners. To maintain a smoke-free environment, please also refrain from smoking in paths of travel and doorways.