"OUTDOORS Access 4 All!"
Access Ability Wisconsin, Inc., (AAW) is a grassroots 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Access to nature is integral to the human spirit.
It is for the greater good, the whole of humanity, enabling people of all ages and abilities to connect and be reawakened in our natural world.
Nature is for everybody & every BODY!
Our Mission:
Provide opportunities for individuals* with mobility challenges (whether acquired at birth or later in life) to access nature and outdoor recreational experiences with minimal environmental impact while promoting our values!
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy nature, experience its healing benefits, and engage in outdoor activities that enhance physical, mental and emotional health. By fostering outdoor experiences, we empower individuals living with mobility issues to lead active, fulfilling lives while strengthening their community and social connections.
Our Values:
* People living with disabilities and mobility challenges have the right to have equitable access to nature.
* All people are welcomed as leaders and participants: People living with disabilities have a voice.
* Our programs are for people from all economic backgrounds
* We provide programs that promote healthy living (both mental and physical wellbeing).
* We work with organizations to create and enhance programming and recreational spaces that are
welcoming and increase "Outdoors Access 4 All!"
Report significant increases in independence, dignity, and freedom along with the ability to experience the great outdoors with family and friends or on their own. Read more...
Our Commitment:
We strive to increase public access to nature and recreational opportunities while promoting environmental stewardship from education to leadership.
AAW's fleet of equipment (outdoor wheelchairs with enclosed outfitted trailers and other adaptive equipment) are provided at no cost* to help individuals explore nature and create their own outdoor adventures.
Our Programs:
In addition to our programs, we collaborate on community-driven programs and services that empower individuals of diverse backgrounds and all ages. We encourage organizations and individuals to reach out to learn more about AAW's expertise and resources.
Our Services:
Our focus on individuals and inclusive programming expands to organizations wanting to include people of all abilities. We want to work with you from equipment reservations to education and awareness programs. We strive to connect community members with the outdoors to create positive experiences, build connection to nature, and foster a sense of exploration and discovery. Our goal is to make the outdoors more accessible for all while keeping nature as pristine as possible, so everyone can enjoy the benefits of nature.
Honor Hike
Honor Hike
In Wisconsin
Over 5.7 million acres are publicly owned and used for parks, forests, trails, and natural resource protection. Over 700,000 people in Wisconsin have some sort of disability that limits their access to that public land. With all of the proven benefits of outdoor recreation, everyone should be able to enjoy the outdoors!
How dedicated is your organization to providing equitable access to nature for people of all abilities?
Working with AAW on community engagement, local organizations may collaborate with us to create outdoor activities, events, and recreational spaces that are welcoming and accessible for everyone.
By blending our "Outdoors Access 4 All!" model with existing community programming, together increase access to the natural world while empowering individuals from all walks of life to lead and educate, explore, learn, and appreciate the outdoors.
Learn more...
* For individuals who have mobility limitations (including those with acquired and birth-related disabilities), AAW’s provides at no cost with a required small refundable deposit and completed survey, an outdoor wheelchair (OWC) & enclosed trailer that individuals can use to explore the great outdoors.
Individuals - Here's a way to have access to the outdoors for your adventure. Reserve a chair and trailer today!