FridayOL

Local Boys & Girls Club Scoops Top Honours with 'Zen Den' Sensory Room - Superior Health Foundation's First Impact Award!

Upper Michigan's Source

A Win for Wellbeing: DAR Boys & Girls Club Celebrates Superior Impact Award

Menominee & Marinette – The Superior Health Foundation (SHF) has announced the inaugural recipient of its prestigious Superior Impact Award, and it’s going to a truly deserving organisation: the DAR Boys & Girls Club of Menominee & Marinette. Their innovative and impactful sensory room, affectionately known as the “Zen Den,” has earned them this well-deserved recognition.

What is the 'Zen Den' and Why Does it Matter?

The 'Zen Den' is a specially designed sensory room created to provide a calming and stimulating environment for children and young people, particularly those with sensory processing differences, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety. It's a haven where they can regulate their emotions, reduce stress, and explore their senses in a safe and supportive space.

Inside the 'Zen Den,' you’ll find a variety of engaging elements, including:

• Soothing Lighting: Adjustable LED lights create a relaxing and visually appealing atmosphere.
• Tactile Features: Textures like soft blankets, beanbags, and interactive panels provide sensory input.
• Calming Sounds: White noise machines, nature sounds, and gentle music help to block out distractions and promote relaxation.
• Interactive Games: Sensory-friendly games and activities encourage engagement and development.

Why the Superior Health Foundation Chose the DAR Boys & Girls Club

The Superior Health Foundation established the Superior Impact Award to recognise organisations that are making a tangible difference in the health and wellbeing of communities across Northern Wisconsin. The DAR Boys & Girls Club’s 'Zen Den' stood out for its creativity, its focus on a critical need, and the positive impact it’s already having on the lives of children and families in the area.

“We were incredibly impressed by the dedication and vision of the DAR Boys & Girls Club,” said [Name and Title of SHF representative - *insert if available*]. “The 'Zen Den' is a testament to their commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all children. This award is a celebration of their hard work and a recognition of the vital role they play in our community.”

Looking Ahead

The Superior Health Foundation hopes that the 'Zen Den' will serve as a model for other organisations looking to create similar spaces. The award comes with a [Amount of Award - *insert if available*] grant, which will allow the DAR Boys & Girls Club to further enhance the 'Zen Den' and expand its reach to even more children in need.

This is a fantastic achievement for the DAR Boys & Girls Club and a shining example of how community organisations can make a real difference in the lives of young people. Congratulations to everyone involved!