Details:Join Independence First for a Nature Retreat at Blue Lotus Center on Sunday, September 20! Located in West Bend between Ozaukee and Washington Counties, Blue Lotus Center offers a beautiful setting for individuals with disabilities to get outdoors, connect with nature and enjoy a variety of accessible recreational activities. This event is free to attend.
Participants will have the opportunity to get out on the water in a paddle boat or adaptable kayaks, fish from a wheelchair-accessible dock, explore beautiful gardens, hike a trail and look for wildlife, play yard games and experience the outdoor sound garden. You can also simply relax in a hammock or comfortable chair, enjoy a light picnic lunch and spend time making new friends.
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Location: Blue Lotus Center, 5501 Co Hwy M, West Bend, WI 53095
ADA-accessible bathrooms are available. Please note that transportation is not provided.
This event is FREE but RSVP is required by September 14 and space is limited. To RSVP or request disability-related accommodations, contact Tonya Villwock at 414-226-8138 or tvillwock@independencefirst.org. Independence First will do its best to honor accommodation requests received after the September 14 deadline.
For the safety and comfort of people with chemical and environmental sensitivities, please refrain from using perfumed or heavily scented products when attending this event. Please also help maintain a smoke-free environment by refraining from smoking in paths of travel and doorways.