Blossom Bridges: Four Seasons to Flourish at Blossom IDD
Are you ready to experience an entire year of fun, wellness, and personal growth? Join Blossom IDD and our trusted partners—Blue Lotus Center, Happy Place, and Special Olympics of Ozaukee County SOFit—for Four Seasons to Flourish, a quarterly retreat series. Each retreat is crafted to highlight the unique magic of every season, from cozy winter activities to refreshing summer adventures.
What Is Four Seasons to Flourish?
This year-long wellness journey is designed to nurture community bonds, promote health and wellness, and offer valuable support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Through cooking demos, fitness fun, reflective practices, and social opportunities, participants and their caregivers can learn, connect, and grow—all within the serene setting of the Blue Lotus Center in West Bend, Wisconsin.
Program Highlights
- Cooking & Nutrition
- Seasonal meal prep encourages healthy eating, independence, and basic kitchen skills.
- Fitness & Recreation
- Winter snowshoeing, spring nature hikes, summer water fun, and fall explorations—activities rotate to match the season’s best offerings.
- Wellness & Reflection
- Yoga, mindfulness, and arts-based sessions foster mental self-care and personal growth.
- Community & Connection
- Build friendships, enjoy shared meals, and participate in parent/caregiver support sessions to strengthen relationships and share resources.
Who Can Join?
- Individuals with IDD who want to explore new experiences throughout the year
- A parent or caregiver (optional but encouraged!) to attend each retreat alongside the participant, offering support and enjoying the fun
- Participants must be at least 18 years old or have the approval of Blossom IDD if younger individuals have specific needs
Note: If a parent/caregiver is unable to attend, please contact Samantha Bear. We want everyone to have the chance to participate!
Upcoming Dates in 2025
All Four Seasons to Flourish retreats occur at the Blue Lotus Center, 5501 County Road M, West Bend, WI 53095, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM:
- Winter: February 2 (Sunday)
- Spring: May 4 (Sunday)
- Summer: August 3 (Sunday)
- Fall: October 5 (Sunday)
Each session can accommodate 15 participants plus one parent/caregiver per participant, for a total of 30 attendees. There needs to be a mininum of 6 participants to run a program. A community lunch—prepared by the group—is included!
Costs & Registration
- Program Fee: $5 per participant, paid to Blossom IDD.
- Deadline: Payment and RSVP two weeks in advance to secure your spot.
- After Registration: You’ll receive a Google Form for participant information, waivers, and final details.
Why a $5 Fee?
Although the retreat is otherwise free, this small fee helps us manage materials, meal costs, and ensure each session runs smoothly. Your $5 payment reserves your spot, which is essential given the limited capacity.
How to Sign Up
- Reserve Your Date: Choose one or more seasonal sessions that inspire you.
- Contact Samantha Bear: Confirm your attendance, pay the $5 fee, and receive the Google Form link.
- Prepare to Flourish: Mark your calendar, dress for the weather, and bring an open mind for all the activities!
Experience the Seasons with a Supportive Community
We believe each season brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and connect—especially when experienced alongside supportive friends and family. Four Seasons to Flourish offers a welcoming environment where participants can build confidence, explore healthy habits, and celebrate every unique strength they bring to the table.
- Comment below if you have questions or want to share excitement about these retreats.
- Like this post if you appreciate more year-round programming for adults with IDD.
- Share with others who might want to join us for this rewarding adventure!
Additional Information
- Questions about billing? Contact Larissa at office@blossomidd.org
- General inquiries? Reach out to our Executive Director at director@blossomidd.org
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We Can’t Wait to Flourish with You
Whether you’re a longtime Blossom IDD member or a new participant, Four Seasons to Flourish invites you to embrace all the beauty Wisconsin’s seasons have to offer. Sign up today, and get ready to embark on a journey of cooking, recreation, mindfulness, and community—no matter the weather!