Bike Ride Fundraiser
Support us at a Bike/Walk event on Sunday, July 20 with our partner, Friendship Circle WI. It starts at their location in Fox Point and ends at the Conservancy. Register and be sure to join the Conservancy team. All funds raised on our team come back to the Conservancy!
Spring Candlelight Walk
Join us for the Spring Candlelight Walk at dusk, Wednesday May 21st. It's family-friendly and self-led with lanterns lighting the way. Bring your own flameless candle to accompany you. 1 mile of trails will take you through the kettle and down to beautiful Kopmeier Lake, with plenty of resting benches along the way. Wheelchair and walker-friendly option through the We Energies Foundation Healing Garden.
6PM-7:30PM
Wednesday May 21st
Donations encouraged
See you there!
Shared Stillness
A Restorative Workshop in Nature
For Individuals with Parkinson's and Care Partners
In partnership with the Wisconsin Parkinson Association:
Join us for this restorative session with separate options designed for people with Parkinson's and for Care Partners.
Thursday, May 29th 2025 10AM-11AM
at the Conservancy for Healing and Heritage
Registration is required.
Click button below for more info and to sign up.
Living Breath by Breath
A meditative yoga and wellness journey to embrace life transitions and aging.
Are you feeling a shift in your life, a "what's next", a path not as clear as it once was? Are you ready to begin 2025 rejuvenated and with purpose?
If so, you are welcome to join a small group of like-hearted beings in 2025 on the first Wednesday of the month for an experiential practice of living your wholeness intentionally as you move through the natural transitions of being human.
Utilizing various therapy practices, which include movement, mantra, journaling, meditation, relaxation, community and more, to understand our relationship to health and vitality from both the outer body and inner body.
Whether you are 'feeling' the aging process, in a life transition filled with excitement and uncertainty or just curious about how yoga practices, philosophy and meditation play a role in whole-beingness and life, you are welcome to attend.
Location: Reiman Healing Chapel in the Woods
When: first Wednesday of each month
Time: 6-7:15pm
Cost: $25
Save your spot: www.jamiemullenyoga.com
About the presenter:
Jamie Mullen, C-IAYT, E-RYT, PBNC, HAP certified yoga therapist, meditation guide. Jamie has been guiding group and private therapeutic yoga and meditation in the Milwaukee area for over 12 years. Her purpose is to provide all peoples with a sense of wholeness within their entire being so that this wholeness can extend out into the communities that are touched.
For more information about Jamie, visit: jamiemullenyoga.com
Tending Our Grief
So often we feel like we have to tend grief in isolation, and this gathering is an opportunity to practice tending our grief in the presence of others. Grief can feel immense and isolating, or even out of reach. We are creating a sacred gathering space to help each other practice meeting grief with compassion and skillfulness.
At this gathering we will settle in together through a welcoming meditation, poem, song, or guided somatic practice. Then we will reflect on group intentions and offer a framework and context for tending grief in community. After that, we will invite everyone into a 30-45 minute time for individual grief tending supported by a gentle sound bath. This tending may take many forms such as contemplation, movement, writing, drawing, meditating, etc. This is not a space where we will ask for group sharing, rather we will be together as we take our own inner journeys. The circle will wrap-up with a closing practice followed by time for optional tea and connection.
"There is really only one way to restore a world that is dying and in disrepair: to make beauty where ugliness has set in...The beauty I'm referring to is metabolized grief. It includes brokenness and fallibility, and in doing so, conveys for us something deliciously real...When we come into contact with this kind of beauty, it serves as a medicine for the brokenness in ourselves, which then gives us the courage to live in greater intimacy with the world's wounds." - Toko-pa Turner, Belonging
Within this container we aspire to:
- remember the practice of grieving together in community
- dissolve cultural and social stigmas around grief and reclaim it as a gift
- uphold grief as sacred and part of our wholeness, a partner to joy
- keep the physical and energetic pathway to grief open, clear and illuminated
- deepen emotional intelligence and resilience
- build collective capacity to connect with each other and the wider world
Into this space we invite:
- all of the ways that grief might show up -- numbness, tears, anger, despair, disconnection, apathy, overwhelm, pain in the body, guilt, confusion, avoidance, anxiety, etc.
- those who are seeking a way to be held in community with their grief
- those who feel stuck and alone in their grief
- those who are looking for a new way to be in relationship with grief
- those want to gain trust in themselves to be with the immensity of grief in contained, safe, supported ways
- those who want to tend grief as a pathway to deeper aliveness
When: Sunday, May 18, 2025
Time: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Where: Reiman Healing Chapel
Cost: covered by a sponsorship. Goodwill donations are appreciated and welcomed
Registration required. Limit 12 registrations. Complete form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeGF78R3cJPwdoK_FML6eGG4u-G27sSTJnz-vsxmsG2yYbz7Q/viewform?usp=header
Facilitators
Shay Vetterman is a massage therapist and energy practitioner in Milwaukee. Through her own grief journey, she found access to deeper layers of her heart that she had been long searching for. She continues to be inspired by the ways grief can open us to life, and has sought training in various modalities so that she can be a compassionate companion to those walking this path. You can learn more about Shay and her work by visiting her website.
Emma Koeppel works in community spaces to weave song, ritual, connection, and emergence. Her journey with grief led her to be deeply curious about ancestral lineage and ancestral grief, and about how we all carry threads of collective grief that expand beyond our individual lives. Connecting with grief in this way has helped her feel embedded into a wider web of kinship, return more aliveness to her body and heart, and feel more at home in her life. You can learn more about Emma and her work by visiting her website.
The sound bath will be offered by Morning Malsom and Tyler Derouin of Sound Sanctuary MKE
Feel free to reach out to Emma (emmackoeppel@gmail.com) or Shay (shayvetterman@yahoo.com) with any questions.
Nature's Wisdom
Meets Every Third Saturday of the Month
9:00AM-11AM
Upcoming dates: third Saturday of the month
Registration is Required
This interactive group is open to women of all ages. Our intention is to strengthen social connections and build friendships while learning from nature and each other.
Each month will offer nature inspired wisdom, discussions and activities to promote laughter, resiliency, empowerment, and a sense of community, so we can live our lives to its fullest and feel supported along the way. There will be shared responsibility for group facilitation and activities.
The group size is limited, so registration is required at EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops
Bring: notebook and pen
Where: The Conservancy for Healing & Heritage
Fee: A goodwill donation to the Conservancy is encouraged, but not required. Please bring exact cash or check written to the Conservancy for Healing & Heritage
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. This workshop is ideal for those beginning their wellness journey, yet still beneficial for those who are already engaging in wellness activities.
This laid-back day will include:
- Calling a truce with your inner critic/negative mindset
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Connecting with the wisdom of nature
- Starting a gratitude practice
- Learning useful strategies to feel uplifted
- Establishing a healthy self-care plan
- Receiving a variety of items for your wellness toolkit
- Laughter and more!
Recent reviews: "This workshop is a wonderful way to begin your wellness journey. Some of the information I already knew, however it was a good refresher. It was a very enjoyable day!" Liz A.
"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!" Michelle E.
"This is an excellent workshop not to be missed." Adrienne Z.
"This was an amazing day! Such great information and I really appreciated all the items and handouts that I received." Mary W.
"I left with a peace and quietness that I haven't felt in a long time." Michelle R
."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!" 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.
When: Saturday, June 7, 2025 9:30a.m.-3:30p.m.
Investment: normally $125, however this workshop is sponsored by an anonymous donor, so there is no charge to attend! A goodwill donation to the Conservancy is welcomed.
Location: Inside the Reiman Healing Chapel
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 (layers are good as the temperature fluctuates due to the high ceiling. There will be light snacks, water and tea available. Some of the activities will be spent outdoors, so plan accordingly.
Seats fill up quickly, so don't hesitate to register!
Registration is required: EverydayWellnessForYou.com/workshops Grab your friends and enjoy the day together or come alone and meet new friends!
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
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: Saturday, May 3, 2025 - 9:30am to 3pm
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
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, May 24, 2025
Time: 9:00am, to 11:30am
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: Susan Rabe, CEO of the Conservancy for Healing and Heritage will lead the discussion. Susan brings a unique background, having been through her own healing journey the past 10 years. She incorporates all aspects of the human experience focusing on faith as her guiding principle.
Badgerland Birding Workshops: Sponsored by Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital (MOSH)
Spring Migration Walk in May: Tuesday May 20th (8-9:30am)
This program will highlight migratory species seen throughout the state, including some that we can find at the Conservancy such as warblers and waterfowl. We will give a presentation with some migration information (why birds migrate, what species show up, what’s different between spring and fall) and then walk the Conservancy to see what migratory species we can find. With the information from this program, attendees will also be better prepared to identify species in their own backyard.
Note: early program time takes advantage of the best bird activity
Goodwill donations welcome.
Register: susan@theconservancy.org
Optimizing Your Backyard for Birds in Summer: Tuesday June 24th (6-7:30pm)
This program will highlight how to make your backyard a bird oasis! Badgerland Birding will talk about the best plants, bird feeder setups, what NOT to do, and more! If you're into backyard birding, this is the presentation for you!
Goodwill donations welcome.
Register: susan@theconservancy.org
Owl Prowl: Tuesday October 28 (7-8:30pm) Free!
Join us for a night of owl-themed fun! We will start with a brief presentation about Wisconsin's owl species, where to find them, as well as their impact on our culture. Afterwards, we will walk around the Conservancy to see if any owls are active. If we do not find any on site, we will travel about 5 minutes away to try another location. Whether you're a new birder, advanced, or just interested in learning more, don't miss out on this chance to learn about owls and get into the Halloween spirit. Dress warm for the walk, flashlights are not required, but you can bring one if you would like.
Last year we found Screech and Long Horned Owls on the Trails.
Goodwill donations welcome.
Register: susan@theconservancy.org
About Badgerland Birding
Badgerland Birding was created by two brothers in the Wisconsin Birding Community named Ryan and Derek Sallmann. Their goal is to use media to create spread knowledge about birds and other animals that live not only in Wisconsin but all across the United States. They have been a regular partner of the Conservancy for the past six years. Visit their website at www.baderlandbirding.com
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
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
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 more 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: TBD
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: https://www.susansinspiredart.studio/
● $55.00 includes all the materials plus snacks, hot drinks.
● Previous students $50.00.
● 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