FREE! FAMILY-FRIENDLY! ACCESSIBLE! Oh, and did we mention, FREE?
More information about Kidz Expo
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Wings for Autism® event at Appleton International Airport (ATW) IS BACK!
This event is being held in partnership with Air Wisconsin, ATW, Autism Society of Greater WI, Fox Valley Autism Treatment Program, The Arc of Fond du lac and WisconSibs.
Wings for Autism® is an airport “rehearsal” specially designed for individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities and their families.
Wings for Autism® helps alleviate some of the stress that people with disabilities and their families experience when traveling by air. The program will provide families with the opportunity to participate in the entire airport experience by practicing entering the airport, obtaining boarding passes, going through security, and boarding an airplane. Wings for Autism® also gives airport, airline, TSA professionals and other personnel the opportunity to observe, interact, and deliver their services in a structured learning environment. Thousands of families from all over the country have taken part in these events.
“Traveling can be stressful for anyone, but for children and adults with developmental disabilities the process can be even more intimidating,” ATW Airport Director Abe Weber said. “I want traveling through Appleton International Airport to be a fun and exciting experience for everyone, so I’m proud to support The Arc along with Air Wisconsin and our local partnering agencies as they raise awareness through their “Wings For Autism® event.”
All individuals that will be participating in the Wings for Autism® event on April 20, 2024 at Appleton International Airport (ATW) need to register. There are 2 boarding times.
Participants are asked to arrive at the airport 60 minutes before boarding time to allow ample time to check-in and pass through security. Individuals 18 years old and over are required to bring a valid form of government-issued ID to be allowed through security.
Due to limited space, individuals with disabilities are allowed to have only one family member/support staff accompany them onto the airplane. However, up to five additional family members/support staff are welcome to attend the other portions of the event; they will just not be permitted to board the plane. All family members/support staff attending the event must provide the required information in the form below in order to obtain access into the airport.
If you have any questions or need assistance with completing registration, please contact Abram Weber at [email protected] or 920-832-5267.
This event will feature Sibshop activities and lots of fun reconnecting with other kids who have siblings with disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental health conditions.
Teen Sib Leadership opportunity. Click to volunteer.
Are you a sibling who is concerned about the day your parents no longer can care for your sibling? Or you’ve become responsible for your sibling and are unsure about the future and need some answers?
For adults who have a sibling with developmental disabilities or long-term illnesses, the journey together is lifelong. You may already be in a care giving role or expect to in the future. This program helps you clarify your role, get the planning tools to move forward, and connect with other siblings and local resources that will change your future.
Journey Forward has one main goal— to help you as an adult sibling move forward with peace of mind.
Presented by WisconSibs. Hosted by Covey.
When you finish Journey Forward, you will have a written document which describes your sibling’s desired future living arrangement, community role, and lifestyle preferences. You will have a plan that includes practical directions and information for maintaining continuity in your sibling’s daily life and needed supports to achieve these outcomes. Some call this peace of mind.
Adult siblings are encouraged to invite parents, siblings (including any with disabilities), and other family members as their guests. The program includes all materials for adult siblings and their guests (spouse, other siblings, parents, and any other significant members of their family or team) for both sessions. The date of the second session will be determined with the group on May 31st.
Have questions? Check out these FAQs or reach out to use at [email protected]
Who benefits from attending WisconSibs training?
Adult Sibs
Service providers
School and child care personnel
Therapists, health professionals
Current Sibshop facilitators looking to refresh their knowledge/skills
Teen Sib Leaders age 16 and older
This two-day Sibshop Facilitator training includes:
Questions? contact us
*Note: This is first-generation Sibshop training that allows trainees to start Sibshops in their own community or join the troupe of WisconSibs facilitators that will help expand the number of WisconSibs Sibshops offered throughout Wisconsin. Emily Holl, Director of the Sibling Support Project, will be the trainer.
This high energy day-camp for siblings ages 6-12 is held at Plamann Park just north of Appleton. Each day is packed with activities, including swimming, arts and crafts, hikes and hunts, games, carnival and playground fun. PLUS—siblings have the opportunity to share and celebrate the challenges and joys of being a sibling.
All campers start the first day at the Chris Brandt shelter. Older campers expand into their own shelter part of each day.
10am-3pm daily
Sign up for 3 or more days.
$200 per child
SibDays directors are trained WisconSibs Sibshop facilitators. Campers especially enjoy their teen and young adult small group leaders, many of whom also have siblings with special needs. Space is limited to 45 campers.
** Check with your case manager to learn if your county will pay some or all of the fee for this sibling respite program.
Plamann Park—1375 E Broadway Dr, Appleton: From
HWY 41, exit Ballard Rd., go north 2.2 miles, turn left on Broadway to park entrance. Follow signs to your WisconSibs event.
Registrations accepted on a first-come-first-served basis.