Programs and Events

Saturday Morning Soul Circle

“Going on retreat is a time to cocoon, so that we may emerge ready to return to our lives with a new perspective”.

During this morning retreat, we will step away from the hustle and bustle of life to focus on an aspect of spirituality. Each month will offer a different topic.

Life can be hard and we need support to find our way through the challenging times. This is perfect for anyone who is longing to deepen and renew their faith as we focus on the gifts of life and joy.

When: Saturday, June 24, 2023.

Time: 12:15pm to 2:00pm

Where: Reiman Healing Chapel in the Woods at the Conservancy for Healing and Heritage. Directions: Pull into the parking lot of the Ascension Medical Building at S. 74th and W. Rawson Avenue. Drive to the far end of the lot. Chapel is on the right. Signs will lead you in the right direction.

Cost: $20 suggested donation is appreciated. Exact cash or check payable to the Conservancy for Healing and Heritage can be brought that day.

Pre-registration is required: email name, phone number to susan@theconservancy.org. Or call Susan at 414.510.4771.

NOTE: Limit 20 people per session

About the facilitator: Kim Mandelkow is the Director for the Office for Worship at the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Kim brings a unique background, having lived a life of work, prayer and service while in the religious community of the Sisters of St. Benedict. She has ministered in Missouri, Indiana and Kentucky in multiple facets of parish and organizational life. She holds a degree in music and religion from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, a master’s degree in pastoral theology from Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Christian Worship and Spirituality from the Institute for Worship Studies in Jacksonville, Florida.

Unplug and Recharge

We invite you to join us at the Conservancy for Healing & Heritage in Franklin, WI for a day of much needed connection, learning and laughter all while surrounded by the beauty and calm of nature. Grab your friends and enjoy the day together or come alone and meet new friends!

Registration is required. Go to EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops

Date: Saturday, June 3, 2023 - 9:30am to 3:30pm

This laid-back day will include:

Time for self-reflection
Calling a truce with your inner critic/negative mindset
Breathwork Mindfulness Meditation
Reconnecting with the healing benefits of nature
How to smudge a room/person
Establishing a healthy self-care plan
Receiving a variety of helpful items for your wellness toolkit
Laughter and more!

Attendee reviews: "My experience of attending an unplugged event was beyond excellent! Highly recommend it! Educational & fun! The day went by fast and I didn’t want it to end lol! I learned a lot and felt so much less stress and anxiety after learning so many easy techniques from Jean who is beyond a pro! I will definitely be following her for other workshops/events in the future! Excellent Mother’s Day present for one as well!" -Michelle E.

"This was an amazing day! Such great information and I really appreciated all the items and handouts that I received."- Mary W.

"I came here stressed, I am leaving here refreshed. Such a beautiful venue for this program. I enjoyed laughing and connecting with the other women, including reconnecting with nature!" Tammi Z.

"When I arrived in the morning, my body was tight and my stress was high. When I left I felt light and free from the heaviness that the pandemic caused in me. I highly recommend this workshop. It is worth more than the fee charged. It's been a week since I attended and I still feel lighthearted" -Sara T.

Fee: normally the all day program fee is $125. However, this workshop is sponsored by an anonymous donor. Goodwill donations are gladly accepted.

This is a small group workshop, so don't hesitate to register.

Location: Conservancy for Healing & Heritage 7410 W. Rawson Ave, Franklin, WI

Bring: a notebook/journal, pen, a bowl (soup bowl size is good), a healthy lunch, and anything else that will make you comfortable. Wear your comfy clothes as this is a laid-back day! There will be light snacks, water and tea available. Some of the day will be spent outdoors (rain or shine), so plan accordingly.

About the facilitator: Jean Fink, OTR, is a licensed occupational therapist, certified Reiki master teacher and owner of Everyday Wellness in Hales Corners. She has additional training in Wellness Counseling, Grief Support Specialist, Mental Health First Aid and in Emotional CPR (how to revive our emotional hearts in the midst of crisis, trauma and distress.). Jean provides natural healing therapies for the mind, body and spirit, and facilitates workshops that foster positive mental health and resiliency. For more information: EverydayWellnessForYou.com

New Herizons

Are you in need of meaningful connection? We invite you to join us as we connect with the wisdom of nature. New Herizons is for women of all ages who have been following a solitary self-growth/spiritual path and now feel the need to receive guidance and connect with kindred spirits. The idea is to create a community so we know we have a web of support and can learn from each other.

This group will encourage and support you as you expand your horizons. We will create a safe place for you to explore new ways of coping, so that you find the courage to act upon that quiet voice within and allow your authentic self to rise. Each month will offer different topics focusing on self-growth, resiliency, emotional health, and empowerment to help you to enjoy your life to its fullest. Weather permitting, the group might be held outdoors, so dress accordingly. Bring a notebook and pen.

Registration is required: www.EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops

When: Held every third Saturday of the month. Upcoming dates: May 20

Time: 9:00a.m.-10:30a.m.

Fee: $30/month ~ Cash or check only

Location: Inside the Reiman Healing Chapel

Evening of Mindfulness Meditation

Join us for evenings of mindful meditation in the Healing Chapel in the Woods.

In today’s complex and stressful world, many of us long for peace of mind and awareness of the beauty of nature and the present moment. The Mindfulness Community of Milwaukee is dedicated to the creation of a mindful culture—fostering loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity.

The Community has been practicing together for 30 years, studying primarily in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk, teacher and author, known worldwide for his peace activism and for pioneering the concept of mindfulness in the West.

Our community welcomes anyone to practice with us, no matter your background or experience. We especially welcome those new to the practice of mindful meditation.

Our practice includes:

· Sitting and walking meditation

· Shared reading and discussion

· Study of mindfulness principles that nurture individuals, families, society and a healthy planet

Meetings begin in the Conservancy’s Healing Chapel, with windows overlooking gardens and woodlands. When weather permits, we will do walking meditation on the Conservancy’s nature trails.

Location: Conservancy for Healing and Heritage, 7410 W. Rawson Ave, Franklin, WI

When: First and third Thursday of each month starting January 5, 2023.

Time: 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Reiman Healing Chapel

Directions: Turn into the parking lot of the Ascension Medical Building at S. 74th Street and W. Rawson Avenue. Drive to the far end of the lot. The Chapel is on the right. Signs will lead you in the right direction.

Cost: Free. Donations to the Mindfulness Community of Milwaukee and the Conservancy for Heritage and Healing are welcome.

Registration: For more information, contact Lynn Hughes at hugheslynn@sbcglobal.net

New Programs for 2023 plus Two More Added!

PROGRAM FOR MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS - Wednesday, September 13 @ 3:00 to 5:00pm

The Conservancy and Badgerland Birding’s mission’s reach all ages. Badgerland Birding prides themselves in being able to inspire the next generation of birders. This program is for middle and high school students. It will include “Birding 101” curriculum discussing the history of the hobby, basic identification, and how to get involved, while showing students the birds/wildlife at the Conservancy as we walk the Trails and explore the lake.

OWL PROWL (Back by popular demand) - Tuesday, October 17 @ 6:00 to 7:30pm

Owls are fascinating birds that have great cultural significance. A hit in 2022, this program will again delve into the world of these mysterious birds and explore the owl species found in Wisconsin. Following the presentation, we will explore the Conservancy and surrounding area at night, calling owls.

BIRD ARTS AND CRAFTS - Tuesday, November 14 @ 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Going outside isn’t the only way to appreciate birds. In this program, attendees will be guided through creating arts and crafts involving birds. I.e., pine cones become Snowy Owls. This program is great for people of all ages who want to get in touch with their creative side while also learning more about birds. Weather permitting, visiting the Conservancy’s Trails will conclude this year-end program.

WINTER BIRDING - Tuesday, December 5 @ 1:00 to 3:00pm

While winter can sometimes feel like a bleak and uneventful time of the year, it can be an amazing time for birding. We will explore typical bird species that migrate from the Arctic and Canadian north into Wisconsin. Additionally, the best places to look for birds during winter and common winter backyard species will be covered. Weather permitting, heading out on the Trails.

When: see dates and times above for each program date

Where: Reiman Healing Chapel

Cost: free - sponsored by Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital.

Goodwill donations are encouraged and welcome

Registration required - email Susan at susan@theconservancy.org

Birding and Mental Health

Public stress levels in the United States are at an all-time high and mental health is beginning to be a primary focus for millions of Americans. Recent studies shed light on the fact that spending time in nature is incredibly beneficial for the mind. One activity that can benefit people by getting them into nature is Birding. There are several reasons other than being in nature that birding is healthy (both mentally and physically). In addition to getting into nature, Birding can also help keep a person's mind sharp with both visual, and audio recognition of bird species being prominent aspects of the hobby. Additionally, the joy of adventure and finding a particular bird can be very rewarding to participants. Overall, the mental health benefits of birding are noted and the hobby will continue to help people to relax and unwind from stress.

About Badgerland Birding:

Badgerland Birding is an organization created by brothers Derek and Ryan Sallmann, dedicated to educating people on birds and wildlife in a fun and entertaining way. Starting as a YouTube channel in 2016, Badgerland Birding has expanded to doing much more, including bird talks, bird walks, programs with girl scout troops, school programs, and guided tours. As the hobby of birding grows in popularity, Badgerland Birding looks to be an integral part of many people’s experiences in growing their knowledge about wildlife and fostering a spirit of adventure. Their YouTube Channel has over 10,000 subscribers from around the world. www.badgerlandbirding.wordpress.com

A day for women in the military - active or retired

We invite you to join us for an enjoyable day of self-care, connection, learning and laughter all while surrounded by the beauty and calm of nature. This FREE workshop is open to women from all branches and areas of military services, including family members.

When: TBD

This laid-back day will include:

A forest bathing experience
Time for self-reflection
Calling a truce with your inner critic
Meditation and breathwork
Learning useful strategies to feel uplifted
Receiving a variety of items for your wellness toolkit
Lunch from Panera, snacks, and light beverages
Laughter and more!

Facilitators: Jean Fink, OTR is a licensed occupational therapist, certified Reiki master teacher and owner of Everyday Wellness, llc in Hales Corners. Jean provides natural healing therapies for the mind, body and spirit, and workshops that foster positive mental health and resiliency. For more information see her website EverydayWellnessForYou.com

Allison Kitzerow is a Nature & Forest Therapy Guide, certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. She is also an Army Veteran and Communications Manager at an outdoor recreation company. She provides forest bathing experiences to help people slow down, relax and engage with nature.

Registration is required: EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops

Bring in more Serenity, Nature, and Creativity into your life with therapy painting

Healing with painting - open your heART and spirit to nature’s connection and potential creativity at our beautiful Conservancy for Healing and Heritage.

Open to imore possibility and positivity into your life!

Everyone is an artist in their own way! Experience a day of process with gentle guidance:

● Touch your quiet innerconnection.

● Play with paint, color, and texture.

● Notice the subtleties of nature.

● Learn techniques for heart, mind, & art connection.

Throughout the day feel your own inner voice and excitement at the canvas.

We will witness the changes in nature and seasons through connecting to the outdoors while feeling joy within. Examples: Winter- Stillness and Planting Beginnings, Spring-Growth and Spring, Summer- Walking in Beauty and Sunshine, Fall- Abundance of Life and Harvesting.

When: Sunday, May 28, 2023 ( the last Sunday every month )

Time: 10:00am- 3:00pm,

Where: Meet in the Reiman Healing Chapel in the Woods at the Conservancy for Healing and Heritage. 7410 W Rawson Ave, Franklin WI, 53132.

Cost: Sign up on instructors website: Susan'sInspiredArt.studio

● $ 60.00 includes all the materials plus snacks, hot drinks.

● Previous students $55.00.

● If you have your own supplies the cost is $50.00.

● Bring a smile, lunch, old clothes, and a notebook or stretch book.

● Materials included: Canvas, acrylics, brushes, stencils, & various bits and bobs.

About the presenter:

Take a look at Susan's website to see her healing art process, testimonials, and what her work is like. Susan'sInspiredArt.studio

If you have questions please, email: you@susansinspiredart.studio

Susan's experience includes a Design degree, 25 plus years as a teacher, and participating in many enrichment painting classes. I love to Paint Joy! She is a coach with the Creatively Fit Coach Certificate Program with Whitney Freya. Artist: Susan Kizaric

Unplug and Recharge ....AGAIN!

We invite you to join us at the Conservancy for Healing & Heritage for another day of connection, learning and laughter! As we gather in circle, you will have an opportunity to take a deeper dive within during time of self-reflection, breath meditation, a releasing ceremony, and more laughter! We will be learning to be in the flow of life to further strengthen our resiliency.

When: September 2, 2023 9:30a.m.-3:00p.m.

Registration is required: EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops This is a small group workshop, so don't hesitate to register!

You do not need to attend the Unplug & Recharge workshop prior to this workshop, although it is helpful.

Fee: Normally $125, however this date is free to attend as it is being sponsored by an anonymous donor.

Facilitator: Jean Fink, OTR is a licensed occupational therapist, certified Reiki master teacher and owner of Everyday Wellness, llc in Hales Corners. Jean provides natural healing therapies for the mind, body and spirit, and workshops that foster positive mental health and resiliency. For more information see her website EverydayWellnessForYou.com