Recreation Therapy | Touch of Nature Environmental Center | SIU

Recreation Therapy

Touch of Nature's Recreation Therapy Program provides recreational opportunities to individuals experiencing physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities including, but not limited to, visual and hearing impairments, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, ADD/ADHD, autism and traumatic brain injuries.  The Program was made possible by the innovations of Dr. William “Bill” Freeberg. Freeberg was one of the founders of the Special Olympics and in 1952 started the first ever outdoor camp for people with disabilities, Camp Little Giant.

Touch of Nature’s Camp 2 facilities are wheelchair accessible. Our counselors and facilitators do their utmost to ensure an adventure filled with experiences leaving lasting impressions and wonderful memories. 

Participating in exciting outdoor activities, meeting interesting new people, and exploring the world is what an adventure with Touch of Nature's Recreation Therapy Program is all about. Each program is a unique experience, combining the place, the season and participants in your group.

For more information about Touch of Nature’s Recreation Therapy Program, contact Jasmine Cave at jcave@siu.edu or call 618/453-3950.  

Veteran Adventures

Veteran Adventures is a program designed to help ease the transition from military life to civilian life for veterans and current military personnel.  Through powerful outdoor expeditions and events, we aim to accomplish the following:

• Present challenging and adventurous opportunities to strengthen bonds.
• Provide community building.
• Foster a healthier veteran population.
• Provide alternatives for mental health assistance without the stigma of traditional mental health avenues.
• Show support and gratitude for the sacrifice our servicemen have made.

Veteran Adventures strives to offer expeditions and events free of charge to veteran participants, and the program is currently funded solely through fundraising efforts and your donations.  Your support is paramount!  Here's how.

For more information about Veteran Adventures, contact Jasmine Cave at jcave@siu.edu or call 618/453-3950.  

Camp Little Giant

Offers summer residential and day camp opportunities for adults and children with cognitive, physical or developmental disabilities, focusing on providing a safe environment for campers to experience personal growth and enrichment.

Archery Hunts

These hunts for people with disabilities are held in November in conjunction with the Illinois Chapter of Safari Club International to bow hunt for deer on Touch of Nature's property.

Fall Respite Camp

In the fall, Touch of Nature hosts a Traditions Respite Camp, an overnight camp where new and old friends get together for some fun.

Events/Expeditions 

Veteran Adventures aims to build those unwavering bonds with participants by providing challenging and adventurous opportunities that push them outside of their comfort zones.

Outdoor Sporting Events

Veteran Adventures offers free annual events throughout the year where veterans can enjoy the outdoors and kindle that special bond of comradery.  

Support

Veteran Adventures strives to provide top-quality experiences to veterans at the lowest possible cost. Through fundraising and donations, we aim to provide these programs to veterans free.