Press Release

New Better Together Activity Club For Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Invites
Community to a Sneak Peek

TRAVERSE CITY – Founders of the Better Together Activity Club for adults with disabilities are inviting community members to visit their new property in East Bay Township at two sneak peek events June 22 and July 20.

Located in a former Boy Scout lodge-style property at 1499 Business Park Drive, the BTAC is aimed at filling a social void that exists for adults 18 and over with disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, and intellectual and cognitive disabilities. The sneak peeks will be held from 10 am-noon and 2-4 pm both June 22 and July 20.

Founders Traci George, Lynda Frusti and Sandy Albrecht-Conrad believe that “everyone deserves a place to belong.” These underserved adults in our community rarely attend social events outside their families. Our members will feel loved, invited, and safe, without labels.”

These women have been informally discussing how to improve their children’s quality of life for several years. Their conversations gradually evolved into the idea of an activity club, where friendships are nurtured, special events are celebrated, and a calendar of activities and recreational opportunities that reflect their interests is offered.

Seeking a location, the women were introduced to local Realtor Bob Brick, who had listed the former Boy Scout property. Brick introduced the trio to Wayne Kiley, a benefactor who was willing to purchase the building and lease it to the group for a year while they raise the money to buy it from him.

“It was such a God-given opportunity. We are so thankful to Wayne,” said Albrecht-Conrad. The arrangement allows them to use the space while they build the organization as a non-profit and fundraise. They envision a membership structure where members pay a small fee, perhaps subsidized by donations. Activities could include anything from movie nights and birthday parties to outdoor activities on the 4-acre property.

Statistics from Erik W. Carter, a Baylor University researcher who focuses on strategies for promoting participation, belonging and valued roles for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, say that 44 percent of autistic people never see friends outside school, and 51 percent have not attended a peer social event in the last year.

The sneak peeks are a chance to see the BTAC property, sign up for future work bees and other volunteer opportunities, or donate.

Release Date: June 19th, 2024

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