"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 is to 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 access, inclusion, equity, and healthy living.
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Our clients 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...
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We strive to increase public access to nature and recreational opportunities while promoting environmental stewardship from education to leadership.
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We collaborate on community-driven programs and services that empower individuals of diverse backgrounds and all ages.
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We encourage organizations and individuals to reach out to learn more about AAW's expertise and resources.
In Wisconsin
Over 5.7 million acres are publicly owned and used for parks, forests, trails, and natural resource protection. Over 600,000 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. We discuss everything from language to logistics while we look at SMART goals and work with a checklist.
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!
AAW’s fleet includes event trailers that hold multiple OWCs for organizations to partner with AAW on events and outdoors access.
AAW's Network is in WI and IL. AAW collaborates with states all across the country.
Community Engagement
AAW provides services to organizations wanting to include people of all abilities, 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.