IKUS Life Enrichment Services
Helping individuals with disabilities discover their potential, gain independence, build skills, and enjoy life in a safe environment — giving them the tools to make every day another best day.
This has been a bittersweet month as we have had to say goodbye to two incredible IKUS staff members as they move on to new places! 💙
After years of pouring their hearts into our mission, Meredith and Madison have begun new adventures, and while we are so excited for them, they are deeply missed.
Meredith, our Lead Programmer for CLS, has a creativity that is truly one of a kind! From creating unforgettable experiences for our individuals to literally building an ice cream truck (!), her imagination and dedication have left a lasting mark on all here at IKUS over her five years. 🍦❤️
Madison, our Marketing and Special Events Coordinator, has been seen taking about a billion photos over the last three years. 📸 She captured so many moments of joy, friendship, accomplishment, and laughter, helping tell the story of IKUS in a way that words never could. She also played a huge role in our events and helped share our mission with the community every single day. 💙
Thank you both for the passion, talent, and love you brought to IKUS and to every individual we serve. Your impact continues to be felt long after your last day. ❤️💚💙
Please join us in wishing Meredith and Madison the very best in their next chapters. Drop a favorite memory, a thank you, or some words of encouragement in the comments so we can give them all the love they deserve! 💙👏🎉
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💙 Happy Parent Appreciation Day! 💙
Today, we're celebrating the incredible parents, guardians, and caregivers who make the magic of Indian Trails Camp possible.
Thank you for trusting us with your campers, cheering them on through every milestone, and believing in the life-changing power of camp. Your love, support, and encouragement give them the confidence to try new things, build friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you're packing bags, sending encouraging notes, volunteering your time, or celebrating every achievement after camp, you're an important part of our camp family.
💚 We'd love to hear from you! What is your favorite Indian Trails Camp memory with your camper? Share it in the comments below—we can't wait to celebrate those special moments with you.
From all of us at Indian Trails Camp, thank you for being part of our community. We appreciate you today and every day. 💙
#ParentAppreciationDay #IndianTrailsCamp #CampFamily #InclusionMatters #CreatingMemories #LifeAtCamp #ThankYouParents
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💙 Meet Rob!
For the past 5 years, Rob has been making the most of every R.E.C. Connect adventure!
His favorite activities include:
🥏 SOMI Fit
🥏 Disc golf
🏐 Dodgeball
🥎 Kickball
🎨 Painting
🎉 BINGO
When he's not at R.E.C. Connect, Rob enjoys riding the exercise bike, helping with chores around the house, and working at Maggie's Be Café and Revive.
When we asked what R.E.C. Connect means to him, Rob shared:
"Getting to know a lot of people and making new friends. Coming here two days a week to play games, do crafts, and go shopping." 💙
Rob's story is a wonderful reminder that R.E.C. Connect is about so much more than activities—it's about building friendships, gaining confidence, and finding a place where everyone belongs.
Thanks to the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, programs like R.E.C. Connect continue to provide opportunities for meaningful recreation, community involvement, and lasting connections. The Ottawa County Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal.
🎥 Want to see R.E.C. Connect in action? Watch the Community Mental Health of Ottawa County spotlight on our program:
www.youtube.com/shorts/02itbkVo9pA
Thank you, Rob, for sharing your story! 💙
#RECConnect #IKUSLife #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityConnection #Belonging #InclusionMatters
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🎁 Wishlist Wednesday! 💙💚
Help us make a difference—one gift at a time! Every donation helps provide the supplies that make camp and year-round programs safe, fun, and inclusive for the children and adults we serve.
Shop our full wish list here:
🛒 ikuslife.org/wish-list/
Thank you for helping us create unforgettable experiences for every camper! 💙
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R.E.C. Connect exists because everyone deserves opportunities to build friendships, explore their community, and participate in meaningful experiences.
Every smile, every new friendship, and every shared adventure reminds us why this program is so special. We are incredibly grateful to our members, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners who make R.E.C. Connect what it is today.
The Ottawa County Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal. This funding helps make R.E.C. Connect possible, ensuring individuals have access to meaningful recreation, social connection, and opportunities to thrive in our community.
To learn more about the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, visit:
www.miottawa.org/cmh/millage
Thank you for being part of our journey. If these stories have inspired you, please help us spread awareness by liking, commenting on, and sharing our posts. Together, we can help more people learn about the impact of R.E.C. Connect. 💙
#RecConnect #ikuslife #CommunityConnection #belonging #TogetherWeGrow
Community Mental Health Millage | Ottawa County, MI
www.miottawa.org
The Mental Health Millage helps fund local programs, strengthen services, and improve access to care for residents across the county.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
☀️ SPLASH INTO SUMMER WITH US! 🌺💦
You're invited to IKUS' Annual Summer Party on Saturday, August 1st! Grab your favorite tropical shirt 🌴, bring your friends and family, and join us for an afternoon filled with fun in the sun!
🏊 Swimming
🍕 Pizza
🎉 Games
🌺 Wear a tropical shirt for a chance to win a prize!
This event is open house style, so whether you're a current participant, family member, or someone interested in learning more about IKUS and the programs we offer, we'd love to have you stop by!
📅 Saturday, August 1
🕚 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 IKUS/ITC Aquatic Center
💲 $2 per person
💙 If assistance is needed in the pool or to participate independently in activities, please bring a support person.
📧 RSVP to Myles at maten@ikuslife.org by Thursday, July 24.
We can't wait to celebrate summer with you! ☀️🌊💙
#IKUSLife #SummerParty #InclusiveCommunity #DisabilityInclusion #SplashIntoSummer #OttawaCounty #CommunityFun #LifeEnrichment #EveryoneBelongs
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💙 Meet Pat!
For around six years, Pat has been part of the R.E.C. Connect family, enjoying new experiences and the friendships that make every outing special.
When asked about favorite R.E.C. Connect activities, Pat shared:
"My favorite outings are going to stores like Target and Five Below. I like just about anything."
In Pat's free time, you'll often find them reading, coloring, doing word searches, playing cards with others, or spending time with family.
When we asked what R.E.C. Connect means to Pat, the answer was simple but powerful:
"I like R.E.C. Connect because all the people are polite and friendly." 💙
Pat's story is a reminder of the meaningful connections that happen every day through R.E.C. Connect. Thanks to the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, programs like R.E.C. Connect continue creating opportunities for friendship, community involvement, and belonging. The Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal.
Want to see the impact of R.E.C. Connect for yourself? Watch the Community Mental Health of Ottawa County spotlight on our program:
IKUS R.E.C. Connect Video:
www.youtube.com/shorts/02itbkVo9pA
Thank you, Pat, for sharing your story! 💙
#RECConnect #IKUSLife #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityConnection #Belonging #InclusionMatters
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💚 Happy Camp Kindness Day! 💙
At IKUS Life Enrichment Services and Indian Trails Camp, kindness is at the heart of everything we do. It’s found in friendships, encouragement, inclusion, laughter, and the moments that remind every person they belong.
Today, we join the American Camp Association and camps across the country in celebrating Camp Kindness Day and the incredible impact a little kindness can make. 🫶
Kindness is what makes camp extraordinary. 💚
#CampKindnessDay #KindnessMatters #IKUS #IndianTrailsCamp #AnotherBestDay #InclusiveCamp #ChooseKindness
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At R.E.C. Connect, every outing, event, and shared experience is about creating opportunities for people to connect with others and build lasting relationships.
From community adventures to recreational activities, our members continue to inspire us with their enthusiasm, resilience, and support for one another.
Want to learn more about R.E.C. Connect and how the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage helps make programs like this possible? Check out this recent WZZM 13 story:
www.wzzm13.com/article/news/local/ottawa-county-mental-health-millage/69-da9ce884-4e9e-446d-9aa4-...
The Ottawa County Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal. This funding helps make R.E.C. Connect possible, allowing individuals to build friendships, strengthen their mental health, and find a true sense of belonging.
Help us spread awareness by liking, commenting on, and sharing our posts. Your support helps more people learn about the impact these programs have throughout our community. 💙
#RecConnect #ikuslife #CommunityMatters #InclusionMatters #connection
Ottawa County voters to decide renewal of critical Mental Health Millage this August
www.wzzm13.com
The Mental Health Millage, on the ballot on Aug. 4, helps provide services to Ottawa County residents struggling with mental health and substance abuse.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
☀️ August is packed with fun at R.E.C. Connect! 🌴🎉
From community outings and creative activities to swimming, sports, fairs, campfires, and more, there’s something exciting happening all month long! Check out the August 2026 R.E.C. Connect calendar and start planning your month with us.
📌 Pre-registration is required for all classes, activities, and special events. To register, email maten@ikuslife.org or call (616) 677-5251 ext. 119.
All scheduled activities are open to community members, so reach out if you’re interested in joining us! 💙
#RECConnect #IKUSLifeEnrichmentServices #CommunityConnections #InclusiveRecreation #AugustActivities #OttawaCounty #DisabilityInclusion
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💙 July is Disability Pride Month, and today we recognize Disability Awareness Day.
At Indian Trails Camp, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to experience adventure, build friendships, and create lifelong memories in a place where they are celebrated for exactly who they are.
Disability awareness is about more than understanding differences—it's about embracing inclusion, removing barriers, and recognizing the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that every individual brings to our community.
Today, and every day, we're proud to foster a camp where everyone belongs. Thank you to our campers, families, staff, volunteers, and supporters for helping create a community where acceptance, accessibility, and joy are at the heart of everything we do. 💚
#DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityPrideMonth #InclusionMatters #Accessibility #IndianTrailsCamp #EveryoneBelongs #CampForAll
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💙 Happy Camp Counselor Appreciation Day! 💙
Today, we proudly join camps across the country in celebrating Camp Counselor Appreciation Day, a special day founded by the Sunrise Association to recognize the incredible individuals who make camp such a meaningful experience.
At Indian Trails Camp, our counselors are the heart of everything we do. From encouraging campers to try new things and celebrating every milestone to offering comfort, support, and endless enthusiasm, they create a place where every camper feels safe, included, and empowered.
Your patience, compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication help create memories that last a lifetime and change lives in ways that extend far beyond a week at camp.
To every past and present Indian Trails Camp counselor: thank you for the countless lives you've touched. We are so grateful for everything you do.
💙 Help us celebrate by leaving a thank-you message in the comments or giving a shoutout to a counselor who made a lasting impact on your life!
#CampCounselorAppreciationDay #ThankYouCounselors #IndianTrailsCamp #InclusiveCamping #LifeChangingExperiences
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Meet Margareta! 💙
For over a year, Margareta has been part of R.E.C. Connect, discovering new experiences, building friendships, and growing through every adventure.
Some of her favorite R.E.C. Connect activities include:
🔥 Outdoor cooking
🏛️ Visiting the Grand Rapids Public Museum
When she's not at R.E.C. Connect, you'll likely find her playing video games, coloring, or enjoying sports.
When we asked what R.E.C. Connect means to her, Margareta shared:
"R.E.C. Connect means making new friends and learning different skills."
It's stories like Margareta's that remind us how meaningful community recreation can be. Thanks to the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, R.E.C. Connect continues to provide opportunities for individuals to build friendships, gain confidence, learn new skills, and stay connected to their community. The Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal.
Thank you, Margareta, for sharing what R.E.C. Connect means to you! 💙
Learn more about the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage:
www.miottawa.org/cmh/millage
#RECConnect #IKUSLife #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityConnection #Belonging #MeetMargareta
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🎁 Wishlist Wednesday! 💙
Looking for an easy way to make a direct impact on the lives of the children and adults we serve at IKUS Life Enrichment Services and Indian Trails Camp?
Every item purchased from our Amazon Wish List helps provide the supplies, equipment, and resources that make our camps and year-round programs safe, inclusive, and unforgettable. From arts and crafts to program essentials, your generosity helps create "another best day" for every participant. 💚
🛒 Shop our Amazon Wish List: a.co/d2LihAx
Or explore other ways to support our mission here:
🌐 IKUS Wish List & Giving Opportunities
Thank you for helping us continue enriching lives—one gift at a time. 💙
#WishlistWednesday #IKUS #IndianTrailsCamp #AnotherBestDay #SupportInclusion #GiveBack #LifeEnrichment
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Did you know? 💙
For many R.E.C. Connect participants, the program is more than a fun outing—it’s a chance to build confidence, create lasting friendships, and become active members of the community.
Whether they’re exploring local parks, attending community events, volunteering, enjoying recreational activities, or simply spending time with friends, R.E.C. Connect helps individuals experience the joy of belonging. Every outing is an opportunity to learn new skills, strengthen relationships, and gain greater independence in a supportive environment.
Thanks to funding from the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, R.E.C. Connect continues to connect individuals with meaningful experiences beyond our doors—helping them stay engaged, active, and involved in the community they call home.
The Ottawa County Mental Health Millage will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal.
To learn more about the Mental Health Millage and the programs it supports, visit:
www.miottawa.org/cmh/millage
Every connection matters. 💙 Help us spread awareness by liking, commenting, and sharing this post so more people can learn how R.E.C. Connect is changing lives through community, friendship, and belonging.
#RECConnect #IKUSLife #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityConnection #Belonging #Inclusion #BuildingFriendships #LifeEnrichment
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!Join us on August 1st for our annual Summer Party!
This event is open house style, and we welcome anyone who would like to learn more about our programs & services.
This will be a splashin' good time - hope to see you there!
*RSVP Myles at maten@ikuslife.org required by July 24th.
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Our Summer Camp staff have made the most of their week off—catching up with family and friends, exploring new places, and taking a well-deserved break to recharge. ☀️💚
But now... the countdown is on! 🎉
We're so excited to head back to camp and welcome our amazing campers home on Sunday. We can't wait for another week filled with laughter, friendships, unforgettable adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime.
See you at camp soon! 🏕️💙
#IndianTrailsCamp #SummerCamp #CampFamily #SeeYouSunday #MakingMemories #InclusiveCamp #CampIsHome
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Meet Megan! 💙
For the past seven years, Megan has been part of the R.E.C. Connect family, creating friendships and making memories along the way.
When asked about her favorite R.E.C. Connect activities, she didn't hesitate:
🏊 Swimming
🛍️ Shopping
🎨 Crafts
Outside of R.E.C. Connect, Megan enjoys spending her free time coloring. But when we asked what R.E.C. Connect means to her, her answer says it all:
"R.E.C. Connect means spending time with friends, making new friends, and making memories."
Stories like Megan's are why R.E.C. Connect matters. Programs like this are made possible through the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage, which will appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot for renewal. This funding helps individuals build meaningful relationships, stay connected to their community, and experience the joy of belonging.
Thank you, Megan, for sharing your story! 💙
Learn more about the Ottawa County Mental Health Millage:
www.miottawa.org/cmh/millage
#RECConnect #IKUSLife #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityConnection #Belonging #MeetMegan
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💚 Happy Disability Pride Month! 💚
This July, we celebrate the strength, diversity, and unique experiences of people with disabilities while recognizing the importance of creating communities where everyone belongs.
At Indian Trails Camp, Disability Pride Month is a reminder of what we strive for every day—a place where campers are empowered to be themselves, friendships flourish, barriers are broken down, and every individual is valued for who they are.
We're honored to be part of so many incredible journeys and grateful to the campers, families, staff, volunteers, and supporters who make our camp community one of acceptance, accessibility, and belonging.
Here's to celebrating every ability and continuing to build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 💙
#DisabilityPrideMonth #DisabilityPride #InclusionMatters #Accessibility #IndianTrailsCamp #EveryoneBelongs #CampForAll #AnotherBestDay
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