More than Respite
Many people think of respite as simply providing supervision.
We believe it can be so much more.
Every Outdoor Movement Connection is intentionally designed to create experiences that encourage participants to:
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Build confidence through new challenges
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Develop friendships and meaningful social connections
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Increase independence and decision making
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Improve physical health through movement and recreation
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Discover a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors
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Experience genuine belonging within their community
Our Three Pillars
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Outdoor (Adventures)
Every outing offers opportunities to explore, discover, and experience something new. From kayaking and fishing to hiking, snowshoeing, camping, and community adventures, each experience encourages participants to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and supportive environment.
Movement (Being Active)
We believe movement should be meaningful, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone. Through outdoor pursuits, recreation, workouts, and recreational sports leagues, we create opportunities for individuals of all abilities to move, explore, challenge themselves, and discover activities they can enjoy for a lifetime. Our goal is to make being active something participants look forward to.
Connections
Meaningful relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We foster friendships among participants, build trusting relationships with families, and create connections that strengthen our entire community.
Adventures you'll Experience
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Kayaking and canoeing
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Hiking Wisconsin's beautiful trails
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Fishing and ice fishing
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Swimming and beach days
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State park adventures
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Camping experiences
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Lion's Camp adventures
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Wildlife exploration
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Sporting events and Community Festivals
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Snowshoeing and winter recreation
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Health & Wellness programming
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Recreational activities and Sports Leagues
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Seasonal celebrations
How We Serve
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Respite
Meaningful recreational and outdoor experiences designed to provide families with respite while helping participants build relationships, confidence, and independence.
Health and Wellness
Active, engaging experiences that promote physical activity, healthy choices, social connection, and overall well-being.
Community Based Day Services
Opportunities to develop skills, increase community participation, build relationships, and pursue meaningful activities based on individual interests and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to participate in Outdoor movement connection?
Outdoor Movement Connections primarily serves children, teens, and adults with disabilities, with school-aged programming generally beginning around middle school age (approximately 10–11 years old). Our adventures take place in the community in small group settings, so participants should be able to engage safely and meaningfully with others with the appropriate level of support. We work with families and individuals to identify adventures that align with their interests, abilities, support needs, and goals. Our priority is creating positive experiences where every participant can participate, build connections, and enjoy their time together.
What are your hours of operation?
During the summer, we typically offer adventures Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We also offer special events, community outings, and sporting events that may take place during evenings or weekends.
Throughout the year, we offer unified recreational sports leagues, including:
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Inclusive Bowling League: October–November
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Unified 3-on-3 Basketball League: January–March
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Cornhole League: April–May
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Flag Football: July–August
League schedules and special event availability may vary. Please contact us to learn more about upcoming opportunities.
Do you offer traditional respite care?
Outdoor Movement Connections does not provide respite care in a participant's home or in the private homes of our team members. Instead, we focus on creating meaningful, community based respite experiences that encourage connection, participation, and adventure. We may be able to accommodate traditional respite requests when they align with our small group approach, community based programming, and the participant's support needs. Please contact us to discuss your family's situation and explore whether Outdoor Movement Connections may be a good fit.
How do families pay for OMC adventures?
Our available funding options depend on the participant's age, program, and eligibility.
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School-aged participants: CLTS funding or private pay
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Adult participants: Lakeland Care, IRIS, or private pay
Funding authorization and program availability vary by individual. If you're unsure whether our program can work with your funding source, please reach out and we'll help you explore your options.
What service types or funding codes does Outdoor movement connections use?
Our services are designed around the needs and goals of each participant.
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2:1 Small-Group Respite: Many school-aged participants participate in small group adventures with a 2:1 support ratio.
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1:1 Respite: Available for individuals who require a higher level of individualized support, depending on program fit and availability.
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Day Trips and Extended Adventures: Full day or extended experiences, including certain overnight adventures, may be available through applicable day trip rates.
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Adult participants access programming through community-based day services.
The appropriate service type, support ratio, and authorization depend on the individual's needs and funding arrangement. We can work with families and case managers to discuss available options.
How do I sign up my loved one for Outdoor movement connections?
The easiest way to get started is by completing this form. You can also email us at outdoormovementconnections@gmail.com. We'll follow up to learn more about your loved one, the types of adventures you're interested in, and whether Outdoor Movement Connections may be a good fit. We're excited to help you find your next adventure!