Celebrating Special Olympics

Community, Pride, and Perseverance

With the Winter Olympics officially underway this week and the excitement building for the Paralympics in March, Community Support Network (CSN) is excited to celebrate the spirit of sport, determination, and community by highlighting Special Olympics and the CSN clients who are part of it today.

Special Olympics is a global movement that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness, courage, joy, and friendship (Source: Special Olympics). Here in Wisconsin, Special Olympics Wisconsin brings these opportunities to communities across the state through programs that offer athletes the chance to train, compete, and grow together (Source: Special Olympics Wisconsin).

Today, Special Olympics is an active and energizing part of life for many CSN clients. Athletes like Robert, Dana, Andrew, Miranda, and Megan currently participate in sports such as basketball, bowling, bocce, and track & field. While this is not a fully inclusive list, it highlights just some of the CSN athletes who continue to be involved. Their participation reflects a shared enthusiasm for staying active, setting goals, and being part of a supportive and encouraging environment.

When CSN athletes are asked what they enjoy most about Special Olympics, one answer comes up again and again: the friendships. The connections formed through shared experiences, teamwork, and time spent together create a strong sense of belonging and community that extends well beyond the events themselves.

Robert, whose favorite event is track & field, shared that Special Olympics makes him feel proud of his hard work. He explained that winning feels great, but even when he doesn’t win, he is still proud of the effort he gives. His perspective highlights an important part of Special Olympics—celebrating commitment, growth, and doing your best.

Many CSN clients have participated in Special Olympics over the years, each gaining something meaningful from the experience. This February, as athletes around the world inspire us with their dedication and perseverance, we are proud of all CSN athletes who have participated in Special Olympics—past and present. Whether named here or not, every athlete’s effort, growth, and dedication are worth celebrating.

Winter 2026 Newsletter

Important Dates and Upcoming Events

A New Year Rooted in Opportunity

Inclusive Adventures: Exploring Madison Together

Celebrating the Volunteers Who Made 2025 Shine

A Space to Reflect: Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop

Curiosity, Creativity, and Connection: A Look at Recent Activities

Connections that Create Opportunity

Caring for Ourselves Through the Seasons: Winter Wellness

Fall Recipes

Make a Difference

Important Dates and Upcoming Events

CSN Closed 

Thursday, January 1

Monday, January 19

For more information about our upcoming events, visit us at VisitCSN.org/events or follow us on

Facebook & Instagram

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A New Year Rooted in Opportunity

Dear Friends,

The start of a new year is a time for fresh starts, renewed goals, and intentional choices. At Community Support Network (CSN), we are beginning 2026 focused on what matters most: expanding opportunity, connection, and independence for adults with developmental disabilities.

Because of generous community support, CSN enters this new year on strong footing. People are working in meaningful, paid jobs. Participants are engaging in Inclusive Adventures that foster confidence, creativity, and belonging. Dedicated staff continue to provide consistent, skilled support that changes lives every day.

But the need for CSN’s services does not pause with the calendar.

As we move into 2026, your support will help us:

• Expand and sustain supported employment opportunities

• Offer more Inclusive Adventures and enrichment experiences

• Retain experienced staff who provide stability and trusted relationships

• Remove barriers that limit full participation in community life

A gift made at the beginning of the year has lasting impact. It helps set the tone for the months ahead and ensures that adults with disabilities can continue building independence, confidence, and meaningful connections.

If you are looking for a way to start the year with purpose, we invite you to make a tax-deductible gift to CSN. Together, we can continue creating an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. www.VisitCSN.org/donate

Thank you for believing in our mission and for being part of the CSN community.

With gratitude,

Caroline Bowers

Executive Director

Community Support Network

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Inclusive Adventures: Exploring Madison Together

In 2025, Community Support Network proudly launched our Inclusive Adventures Program, opening the door to new experiences, meaningful connections, and shared exploration throughout the Madison community. These outings are about more than just visiting new places—they offer participants the chance to learn, grow, and feel a deeper sense of belonging.

One of our first adventures took us to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, where participants were encouraged to slow down and engage their senses. We listened to birds calling from nearby trees, took in the vibrant colors of plants and flowers, and enjoyed the calming scents of the gardens as we explored the pathways together. For many, it was a peaceful and grounding experience that highlighted the joy of being present in nature.

At the Henry Vilas Zoo, learning came alive through an engaging educational lesson led by a zoo professional. Participants had the rare opportunity to interact up close with animals while discovering fun and surprising facts—details many of us might never have learned otherwise. The experience sparked curiosity, laughter, and plenty of excitement as participants connected with wildlife in a hands-on way.

Our visit to the Chazen Art Museum offered a completely different kind of exploration. Guided tours invited participants to engage with paintings, sculptures, and more, while knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides shared fascinating details about the artwork and the museum itself. One standout favorite was an intricate, lifelike sculpture of a rabbit—so realistic it left everyone amazed.

These Inclusive Adventures show the power of new experiences. Trying something new builds confidence, encourages social connection, and reinforces that everyone deserves access to the cultural and educational opportunities our community has to offer. The impact of these outings is best captured by participants themselves. When asked what she liked about our Inclusive Adventures, CSN participant Sara summed it up perfectly: “Everything!”

We are deeply grateful to the MGE Foundation, Sonnentag American Foundation, TASC, Summit Credit Union, Antioch Foundation, Townsend Foundation, Costco, and Gainwell Cares for their generous support in making these adventures possible. Their support—and yours—helps provide transportation, entry fees, lunches, and other essentials that allow Inclusive Adventures to continue.

Together, we’re creating opportunities to explore, learn, and belong—and we can’t wait to see where our next adventure takes us.

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Celebrating the Volunteers Who Made 2025 Shine

At Community Support Network, volunteers are at the heart of so much of what we do—and in 2025, they truly showed up in meaningful, inspiring ways. From special events to weekly creative connections, our volunteers shared their time, talents, and kindness, making a lasting difference for the people we support. Altogether, volunteers generously contributed over 400 hours of service to CSN in 2025.

This past year, an array of volunteers joined us at Taste of Madison, helping CSN be part of a vibrant community event while supporting inclusion and connection beyond our walls. Their energy and enthusiasm helped make the experience welcoming and fun for everyone involved.

We were also grateful to have Donna and Ellyn once again share their time and care by facilitating another Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop in the spring. Their thoughtful guidance created a welcoming space for reflection, creativity, and connection—something caregivers deeply value. We’re excited to share that Donna and Ellyn will be hosting another Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop this winter. Registration is now open, and details on dates, location, and how to sign up can be found below.

Throughout the year, we welcomed student interns and volunteers Ariana, Caitlin, Lauren, and Ronnie, who balanced busy school and work schedules to spend time at CSN. They shared their interests, ideas, and creativity while gaining hands-on experience to support their future personal and professional goals. Their presence enriched our programs and reminded us how powerful learning and connection can be when it goes both ways.

And then there are our steady, year-after-year volunteers—Bea, Carly, Lisa, and Marlisa—whose consistency means so much. Despite full lives filled with work, family, and countless commitments, they continue to show up. From collages and salt dough ornaments to cookie decorating and other creative projects, their visits bring joy, laughter, and a sense of belonging.

We also want to recognize our Board of Directors, who serve CSN as dedicated volunteers. Their leadership, guidance, and commitment help strengthen our organization and ensure CSN continues to grow and thrive in service of our mission.

These moments are about more than the activities themselves. They’re about the relationships we build, the friendships that grow, and the connections that continue long after the project is finished.

To every volunteer—including our board members—who shared their time, talents, and heart with CSN in 2025: thank you. You brighten our days, strengthen our community, and help make CSN a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.

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A Space to Reflect: Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop

Caregiving is an act of deep commitment and compassion—and it can also be emotionally demanding. This winter, Community Support Network is proud to assist with the Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop, a free, six-session series designed to support caregivers through reflection, connection, and gentle writing practices.

Led by facilitators Donna Anderson and Ellyn Zografi, the workshop offers caregivers a welcoming, low-pressure space to pause and explore their experiences through guided writing. Participants engage with thoughtful prompts, optional sharing, and supportive discussion, discovering tools they can carry with them beyond the sessions. No writing experience is needed—only a willingness to show up and be present.

Past participants have described the workshop as uplifting, supportive, and deeply meaningful. One shared, “This was a wonderful way to process caregiving and meet others with relatable experiences… the experience was uplifting, pressure was low, and discussion was supportive and helpful.” Another reflected on how the writing tools offered a way forward during overwhelming moments, providing hope and a path toward healing.

The Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop will take place February 9 through March 30.

Registration is open now through January 26. We are grateful to support opportunities like this that honor caregivers and offer space for reflection, care, and connection.

To learn more or register, visit VisitCSN.org/events.

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Curiosity, Creativity, and Connection: A Look at Recent Activities

Throughout 2025, we’ve shared many of our favorite moments with you—and as the year came to a close, participants continued exploring, creating, and learning in ways that were both meaningful and fun. Here are a few recent activities you might not have heard about that truly captured the spirit of curiosity and imagination at CSN.

One of our most intriguing activities was a candy corn experiment that kept everyone coming back to check the results. We placed candy corn in a variety of liquids and observed which would dissolve it the fastest. From cold and hot water to sparkling water, vinegar, oil, hand sanitizer, and even an energy drink, each liquid brought something new to discover. The group was so fascinated the first time that we decided to try the experiment again using completely different liquids. In the end, oil didn’t dissolve the candy corn at all, while the energy drink worked the fastest. This hands-on experiment sparked great conversations, encouraged observation, and reminded us how fun it can be to keep asking “what if?”

Creativity was on full display during our winter polar bear art activity. Using a simple clothespin and cotton ball as a painting tool, participants stamped white paint onto black construction paper to create snowy polar bear scenes. No two turned out the same—our pack of polar bears ranged from big to small, each one uniquely perfect. Once the paint dried, participants added eyes, noses, and mouths, bringing their creations to life. It was a wonderful reminder that art doesn’t have to be complicated to be expressive and personal.

We also traveled the world—without leaving the room—while learning about Japan. Exploring different cultures is always a favorite, and this activity was full of interesting discoveries. We learned that Japan is made up of four main islands along with thousands of smaller ones. Participants also practiced saying common words and numbers and learned about Koinobori, colorful carp streamers that are displayed to celebrate Children’s Day on May 5.

Whether experimenting, creating art, or learning about new cultures, these activities highlight the joy of trying new things together. As we move into 2026, we’re excited to keep exploring, imagining, and growing—one activity at a time.

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Connections That Create Opportunity

Strong employment outcomes grow from relationships. At Community Support Network (CSN), we are grateful for the many local employers who build meaningful connections with our clients and welcome them as valued members of their teams.

CSN clients bring a great deal to the workplace. They contribute care, consistency, and a genuine desire to be part of their work environment. Just as important, they often bring warmth, joy, and a sense of connection that can positively shape workplace culture and team morale.

We are proud to partner with businesses that recognize these contributions and see our clients as capable employees with strengths to share. These employers understand that inclusive hiring is about belonging, opportunity, and mutual benefit.

CSN remains actively involved throughout the employment journey. We support both clients and employers with onboarding, training, and ongoing job coaching, helping ensure that expectations are clear and that support is available as needs evolve. Our goal is to create situations where both the employee and the business feel supported and successful.

These partnerships make a lasting difference—for our clients, for employers, and for the community as a whole. When workplaces are inclusive, everyone benefits.

If you’re interested in learning more about hiring CSN clients or partnering with CSN, please contact us at info@visitcsn.org.

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Caring for Ourselves Through the Seasons: Winter Wellness

In the heart of winter, it’s natural for our routines, energy, and even moods to shift. Small acts of care—toward ourselves and others—can make a meaningful difference in our well-being.

Winter is an ideal time to focus on rest, connection, and gentle structure. Giving ourselves permission to rest isn’t just okay—it’s essential. Whether that’s taking a few quiet moments in the morning, enjoying a warm beverage, or simply pausing to breathe deeply, rest helps us recharge and show up more fully for ourselves and those around us.

Connection is another cornerstone of winter wellness. Shorter days can make us feel isolated, but small gestures—checking in with a friend, sharing a laugh, or participating in a community activity—can brighten even the coldest day.

Finally, gentle structure provides a comforting rhythm during months when life can feel unpredictable. Simple routines, like a weekly walk, a creative project, or regular meal times, offer stability while still leaving room for spontaneity and fun.

Caring for ourselves in these ways—resting, connecting, and creating gentle routines—supports not only our own wellness but also the vibrancy of the communities we share. This winter, we invite you to notice the small opportunities to care for yourself and for others, remembering that even tiny steps can make a big difference.

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Fall Recipes

Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce

Ingredients

• 3 Lbs. Apples

• ½ C Granulated Sugar

• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon

• ½ C Water

  
  

Instructions

1. Peel, core, and slice apples and place into the bowl of your crockpot.

2. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the apples and mix well.

3. Pour water into the bottom of the crockpot.

4. Place the lid onto the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours.

5. Once finished cooking, remove the lid and, using a whisk, stir the applesauce until smooth or to desired consistency.

6. Enjoy!

   
   

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Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs

Ingredients

• 32 oz. Frozen Meatballs

• 14 oz. Whole Cranberry Sauce

• 12 oz. Heinz Chili Sauce

• 2 Tbsp Dijon Mustard

• 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar

• 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce

  
  

Instructions

1. Place meatballs into your crockpot.

2. Put the remaining ingredients into a medium bowl and whisk until fully combined.

3. Pour sauce over meatballs and stir to evenly coat the meatballs.

4. Cover and cook on low for 4 - 6 hours or on high for 2 - 3 hours.

5. Enjoy!

   
   

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Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Balls

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ C Oat Flour (or Ground Oats)

• ¼ C Rolled Oats

• 1 Tbsp Pumpkin Pie Spice

• ⅛ tsp Salt

• ½ C Pumpkin Puree

• ¼ C Peanut Butter

• ¼ C Maple Syrup

• ½ C Mini Chocolate Chips

  
  

Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

2. In another larger mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and maple syrup.

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix well until a firm texture is formed.

4. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

5. Form the batter into bite sized balls.

6. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.

7. Enjoy!

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Make a Difference

Join our Board of Directors

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive community for people with developmental disabilities? CSN is currently seeking committed, thoughtful individuals to join our Board of Directors.

As a board member, you’ll help shape the future of our organization by:

• Attending one-hour monthly meetings (held virtually or in person, typically the second Tuesday of each month)

• Contributing to strategic planning and program oversight

• Reviewing financial matters and supporting responsible stewardship

• Serving as a community ambassador and champion for CSN’s mission

Directors and Officers Liability Insurance is provided to ensure peace of mind for all board members.

If you’re ready to share your skills, insights, and passion for inclusive support, we’d love to connect with you. Your leadership can make a meaningful, lasting impact in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

To learn more, please contact Caroline Bowers at caroline.bowers@visitcsn.org

Shop for a Cause!

Visit our Online Shop for a variety of must-have items! Every purchase helps raise funds and spread awareness for our mission. By wearing our gear, you’re not only supporting a great cause but also promoting inclusion and empowerment for adults with developmental disabilities. Thank you for being a part of our community and making a difference!

Ways to Donate

• Financial Donation - Financial donations are always appreciated! Checks can be mailed to CSN or donate directly on our website - VisitCSN.org

• ShopRaise - Shop online using ShopRaise and your purchases from eligible retailers will help support CSN.

• Volunteer - Share a hobby or talent with us. We would love to learn something new from you!

• Supplies - Contact us if you have supplies to donate and we’ll let you know what we are in need of.

Hire Us!

Hire CSN clients to work at your company. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.

Host an Art Gallery Event!

Learn about our clients and their lives through art. Host our art gallery at your business for a month and experience their stories and talents. Email Info@VisitCSN.org for more information.

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Celebrating Care, Connection, and Community This November

At Community Support Network (CSN), November is a month to reflect on gratitude — for the people who give, care, and contribute every day to make our community stronger. This month, we’re celebrating both Family Caregivers Month and the incredible individuals featured in our Abilities in Action series.

Though their paths look different, caregivers and employees alike share a common thread: each brings compassion, effort, and heart to everything they do. Their stories remind us that care and contribution take many forms — and every act of dedication, big or small, helps build a more inclusive and connected community.

Abilities in Action: Strength in Inclusion

Through our Abilities in Action series, we’ve been honored to showcase individuals supported by CSN who are making meaningful contributions at their jobs across Dane County. These are people who take pride in their work, support their teams, and help their workplaces thrive.

At Mendota Mental Health Institute, Nathan keeps supplies organized so staff across campus have what they need to care for patients. At Union South, Mark helps keep the kitchen clean and efficient so delicious meals can be served to students and visitors. Rita brings warmth and reliability to her role at Marshalls, greeting customers and keeping fitting rooms running smoothly.

Several of our clients work at Vita Plus, including Jimmy, Tyler, and Clayton, who each help keep the warehouse and facilities clean and safe for everyone. Robert, at Integrative Sport and Physiotherapy, takes pride in keeping locker rooms and equipment ready for use and enjoys chatting with members throughout his day.

We’ve also highlighted people like Andrew, a gentle and patient dog bather at Serenity Pet Spa; Kristina, who balances two jobs with enthusiasm and determination; and Megan, who now works at the same early childhood program she once attended as a child. Zach brings organization and steady focus to his work at Fastenal, while Piya keeps things running smoothly at Walgreens, helping customers find what they need.

At Metcalfe’s, Dana helps bag groceries and restock shelves; Peg keeps Madison Christian Community clean and inviting while connecting with others; and Miranda independently drives her scooter to work at the Waunakee Library, helping keep books in order for everyone to enjoy.

Each of these stories reflects the core of what CSN stands for — empowering adults with developmental disabilities to contribute their talents in meaningful ways. Supported employment provides individuals with independence, pride, and community connection, while giving employers dedicated, detail-oriented, and reliable team members who make a real difference.

At CSN, our vocational support staff partner closely with both employees and businesses to create successful job matches, provide on-the-job training, and ensure continued support. The result? Stronger workplaces, happier teams, and a more inclusive Madison community.

Honoring Family Caregivers Month

November is also Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the compassion and dedication of those who care for loved ones. Caregiving can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be emotionally and physically demanding. That’s why CSN is proud to support caregivers through opportunities for reflection and renewal — like our upcoming Winter 2026 Caregivers Expressive Writing Workshop.

This free, six-session workshop offers a gentle, supportive space for family and community caregivers to process experiences through writing, connect with others, and discover new ways to care for themselves. No previous writing experience is required — just an open heart and a willingness to explore.

🗓 Workshop Dates: February 9, 16, March 2, 9, 23, and 30

🕙Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.

📍Location: Six Willows Counseling Services, 255 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, WI

🔗Sign up: VisitCSN.org/events 

Secure your spot by January 26!

Here’s what one past participant shared:

“This was a wonderful way to process caregiving and meet others with relatable experiences… The experience was uplifting, pressure was low, and discussion was supportive and helpful.”

Facilitators Ellyn Zografi and Donna Anderson bring decades of experience in psychotherapy, expressive writing, and caregiving. Together, they create a welcoming space where caregivers can find strength through story and connection.

Giving Tuesday: Your Support Makes a Difference

As Giving Tuesday approaches, we’re reminded of how deeply your generosity fuels the work we do. Your support helps CSN continue providing vocational programs, job coaching, and other essential services that empower adults with developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive.

Every donation strengthens our programs, sustains our partnerships, and ensures that our community remains a place where everyone can contribute and belong.

Thank you for being part of the story — for celebrating abilities, honoring caregivers, and helping us build a community grounded in care, inclusion, and opportunity. 

Learn more, donate, or sign up for the caregiver workshop at VisitCSN.org