Nature Retreat at Blue Lotus Center

Join Independence First youth staff for a Nature Retreat at the Blue Lotus Center on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in West Bend, Wisconsin. This outdoor gathering invites youth with disabilities to spend a relaxing day in nature while connecting with peers and enjoying accessible activities in a welcoming environment.

Participants will have the opportunity to try a variety of activities throughout the day. Guests can get out on the water in a paddle boat or adaptable kayaks, fish from a wheelchair-accessible dock (catch and release only), explore scenic gardens, walk along nature trails, and watch for local wildlife. The retreat will also feature yard games, an outdoor sound garden, comfortable seating and hammocks for relaxing, and a light picnic lunch. It’s a great opportunity to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends.

The Blue Lotus Center is centrally located between Ozaukee and Washington Counties and offers accessible outdoor amenities, including ADA-accessible bathrooms. Please note that transportation is not provided.

Spots are limited and RSVPs are required by July 17. To RSVP or to request disability-related accommodations, please contact Kristin Stern at (414) 226-8332 or kstern@independencefirst.org

Reasonable Accommodations  
Independence First is committed to providing the highest degree of accessibility when offering agency-sponsored events. Please notify Nina Gutmanis at (414) 226-8106 with your disability-related accommodation requests by 2 days before the event. 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.