For 50 years, Diverse Options, Inc., based in Ripon, Wisconsin, has been dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities to live fuller, more integrated lives. With programs that include day services, community-supported employment, job training, and independent living support, the organization has continually evolved to meet the needs of those they serve. Thanks to a recent grant from the Wispact Foundation, Diverse Options is now expanding its impact in a new and exciting way—by building an inclusive adult playground.
A New Vision for Accessibility
“Being outside and active is important for everyone,” Susan noted. “We want our individuals to be able to get out and move, socialize, and just enjoy the outdoors in a way that suits their abilities.”
While Ripon does have an inclusive playground four miles away, Susan explained that it’s primarily designed for children. The Wispact Foundation grant is helping fill this critical gap by funding the first phase of a new outdoor space built specifically for adults with disabilities. The grant supports the installation of surfacing, wheelchair-accessible swings, adult-sized swing sets, seating benches, and shaded areas.
“We have people who are severely disabled who will never be able to function independently in the community,” said Susan Osteen, President and CEO of Diverse Options. “They deserve meaningful outdoor experiences too.”
Transformative Services for Daily Life
Diverse Options offers a broad range of services, including:
Day Services: Clients learn life skills and socialization through activities and outings.
Community-Based Employment: Individuals gain real-world job experience through job shadows and small group work experiences.
In-House Job Training: A production facility helps clients learn punctuality, communication, and technical skills through assembly-line and machine work.
Supported Home Care: Individuals receive assistance with tasks like shopping, cleaning, and laundry to maintain independence in their own homes.
In addition to these services, Diverse Options maintains contracts with the Department of Corrections, Hoffmaster (a leading supplier of napkin and cutlery sets), and other local businesses. These partnerships create real employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
A Valuable Partnership
Susan, who joined the organization two years ago, expressed gratitude for the support she received during the Wispact grant application process. “It was easy and wonderful,” she said. “I was new to this kind of grant writing, and the Wispact team was incredibly helpful, talking me through the opportunities and what would make sense to apply for.”
Wispact grants are designed to help nonprofits across Wisconsin improve the lives of individuals with disabilities—a mission perfectly aligned with the work of Diverse Options.
Looking Ahead
While the current Wispact grant supports the groundwork and initial equipment for the playground, Susan has already developed a plan for the next phase. “Putting in adult equipment is very expensive,” she explained. “We hope to build on this project in the future with more equipment and expanded features.”
How You Can Help
As a smaller service provider, Diverse Options benefits greatly from increased awareness and support. Susan invites the public to help in several ways:
Donate: Financial contributions will help complete the inclusive playground and support ongoing services.
Spread the Word: Let others know about the vital work happening in Ripon.
Connect: Refer families and individuals in need of support services.
“We’re so grateful to Wispact for making this vision possible,” Susan said. “With their support, we’re creating spaces and experiences that truly enrich lives.”
For more information about Diverse Options, visit diverseoptions.org.