Below a cascade of lilacs the text says Disability Network Eastern Michigan. A Center for Independent Living serving Huron Lapeer Macomb Oakland Sanilac St. Clair and Tuscola counties.

May 2026 Newsletter

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Mental Health Awareness

A smiling woman who uses a motorized wheelchair gestures as she talks with another person.

Thursday, May 28, 2026

6:00 - 7:30 pm | On Zoom

Mental health is an essential part of well-being. Come learn how to:

  • Recognize mental health conditions
  • Reduce stigma
  • Understand self-care and resilience
  • Strengthen coping skills
  • Identify support systems
  • Foster empathy and normalize conversations

Presenter:

Leon Judd, President and Founder of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Metro-Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties

Logo for AMPED. Advocate. Motivate. Participate. Educate. Defend. A Disability Network Eastern Michigan program.

Questions about Third Thursday?

Contact Janeen Bourlier

JBourlier@DNEMichigan.org

810-987-9337, ext. 8801

American Sign Language (ASL) Classes

A woman wearing a head scarf is practicing ASL in a video call.

Classes are held once a week via Zoom. Choose from four classes.

Beginner ASL

June 8 - July 13, 2026 (6 Mondays)

1:00 - 2:00 pm on Zoom



Learn the basics of American Sign Language and Deaf culture. No prior experience is required.

Beginner 2 ASL

June 9 - July 14, 2026 (6 Tuesdays)

10:30 - 11:30 am on Zoom



Build on the skills learned in Beginner ASL with more vocabulary, grammar, and conversational practice.

Music in ASL

June 9 - July 28, 2026 (6 Tuesdays)

1:00 - 2:00 pm on Zoom


Learn how to interpret and perform songs in ASL. Open to all skill levels.

Advanced ASL

June 10 - July 15, 2026 (6 Wednesdays)

1:00 - 2:00 pm on Zoom



For students who are confident in their signing skills, and ready to refine their fluency and cultural understanding. 

Logo for AMPED. Advocate. Motivate. Participate. Educate. Defend. A Disability Network Eastern Michigan program.

Questions about ASL Classes?

Contact Jay Watson

JWatson@DNEMichigan.org

810-987-9337, ext. 7702

Rec-Connect Adaptive Recreation and Wellness logo. A Disability Network Eastern Michigan Program.

Games & Social Hour

It's game time! Have fun and make new friends while playing games.

Games & Social Hour - Troy

4 people seated around a table playing Uno

Mondays

May 4, 18; June 1 & 15, 2026

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

DNEM Troy Office

Games & Social Hour - Virtual

A young woman wearing headphones is using a laptop, focused on the screen while typing.

Tuesdays

May 12 & June 9, 2026

6:00 - 7:00 pm

On Zoom

Questions about the Games & Social Hours?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Arts & Crafts Class

Two women are painting with watercolors in a Disability Network Eastern Michigan arts and crafts class.

Tuesdays, May 5, 19; June 2 & 16, 2026

2:00 - 3:00 pm

DNEM Clinton Township Office


Let your creativity shine! Make craft projects in a fun, relaxing environment. 
No prior art experience is needed. All abilities are welcome.

Questions about the Arts & Crafts Class?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Stroke Survivor Recreation Group

Wednesdays, May 6 & June 3, 2026

12:00 - 2:00 pm

DNEM Clinton Township Office


Join us monthly for a recreation group for stroke survivors. Enjoy adapted activities like games, crafts, gentle movement, and social connection while building confidence and connecting with others on the stroke recovery journey.

Questions about the Stroke Survivor Recreation Group?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

5K Race in a Running Chair

A woman pushing a young man in a running chair approaches the finish line of a 5K race.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Hansen's Running Shop, Utica


Enjoy the thrill of racing in a 5K!



Disability Network Eastern Michigan is partnering with The Agape Project, which exists to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by sharing the exhilaration and excitement of racing as one community.

Volunteer runners run alongside and push participants in running chairs. You can take part in this event as either a rider, runner, or support staff.

Questions about the 5K Race in a Running Chair?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Nature Appreciation Walks

A diverse group of people walk along a tree lined paved path in a park.

Join us for a nature walk to explore spring greenery and local wildlife. 
Trails and buildings are fully accessible. All are welcome.

Nature Appreciation Walk - May 8, 2026

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston

Nature Appreciation Walk - May 18, 2026

1:30 - 3:30 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston

Nature Appreciation Walk - May 27, 2026

1:30 - 3:00 pm

River Bends Park, Shelby Township

Nature Appreciation Walk - June 8, 2026

1:30 - 3:00 pm

Heritage Park, Farmington Hills

Nature Appreciation Walk - June 22, 2026

1:30 - 3:30 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston

Questions about the Nature Appreciation Walks?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Art - Bad Axe

Monday, May 11, 2026

5:00 - 6:00 pm | Huron County Tech Center

1160 S Van Dyke Rd, Bad Axe, MI 48413


Join the final session of our Bad Axe art class. No prior art experience is needed. All abilities are welcome.

Questions about Art - Bad Axe?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

810-987-9337

Adaptive Fishing

A young man holding a fishing pole is helped with displaying the fish he caught for a photo.

Join us for a morning of catching fish and enjoying the great outdoors!


This program is open to people of all abilities, whether you have never gone fishing or are a seasoned pro. We provide poles, bait, modifications, and adaptive equipment as needed for catch-and-release fishing.


May 12, 26; June 3 & 17, 2026

10:00 - 11:30 am

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston


More adaptive fishing dates are listed on the registration page and flyer.

Questions about Adaptive Fishing?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Adaptive Archery

A man receives an adaptive archery lesson.

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

12:30 - 2:00 pm OR 2:30 - 4:00 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston


Sign up for an adaptive archery lesson designed for individuals with disabilities, ages 14 and older. No prior archery experience is required. All adaptive equipment and modifications are provided to ensure a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.

Questions about Adaptive Archery?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Adaptive Cycling

Woman wearing a bike helmet prepares to ride a handcycle recumbent trike in gravel park parking lot.

Join us for a bike through the park!



Thursdays, May 14, 21, & 28, 2026

Choose a 1-hour time slot between 2:00 and 6:00 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston


We have 7 adult-sized bikes. Pick a bike AND a one-hour time slot.

Helmets are required. We will supply one if you do not have your own.


More adaptive cycling dates are listed on the registration page and flyer.

Questions about Adaptive Cycling?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Indoor Archery and Adaptive Games

A man is putting an arrow in a quiver for stick'em archery. Other adaptive recreation participants are in the background.
Seated man is reaching for tennis balls to throw at at velcro target. Staff is assisting.
Two people holding bean bags are playing cornhole at an indoor recreation event.

Looking for some indoor fun? Play indoor archery, golf, cornhole, and more!

Friday, May 15, 2026

1:00 - 2:00 pm | DNEM Troy Office

Questions about Indoor Archery and Adaptive Games?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Disability Dirt Days

Four people stand in from of an off-road vehicle

Sunday, May 17, 2026

11:00 am - 3:30 pm

Holly Oaks ORV Park, Holly


Strap in, folks. Disability Dirt Days are back!


Paired safely with a volunteer driver, individuals with disabilities can experience what it’s like to zip through the dirt, bounce over rocks, and splash in the water. Riders must be at least 10 years old. Waivers are required.


More Disability Dirt Days are listed on the registration page and flyer.

Questions about Disability Dirt Days?

Call or text 248-221-8040

Karaoke Hour

A woman is singing karaoke into a microphone while reading the lyrics on a large screen.

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

5:00 - 6:00 pm | DNEM Troy Office

Join us for an hour of socializing, dancing, and singing with friends with intellectual disabilities.

Questions about Karaoke Hour?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Stroke Survivors Support Group

14 stroke support group members are gathered around picnic tables in a park

Join us monthly for a support group for stroke survivors that meets at the DNEM Clinton Township office and community locations. The group is a safe space for stroke survivors, caregivers, family, and friends to connect with others who have similar experiences.


May 20, 2026 | Bowling at Imperial Lanes, Clinton Township


June 17, 2026 | DNEM Clinton Township office

Topic: Personality Changes after Stroke

Questions about the Stroke Survivors Support Group?

Contact Julie at 586-263-2498

DiversAbility Day

Two people are learning adaptive archery while bystanders watch.

DiversAbility Day - Fort Gratiot

Monday, June 1, 2026 | 4:00 – 7:00 pm

McIntyre Park

Join us for a hot dog picnic dinner and a variety of adaptive outdoor recreation experiences, including rock painting, cycling, and archery.

DiversAbility Day - Royal Oak

Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Normandy Oaks County Park

Join us for a hot dog picnic lunch and a variety of adaptive outdoor recreation experiences, including hiking, archery, cycling, crafts, and a golf demo.

See more DiverAbility Days on the registration page and flyer.

Questions about DiversAbility Day?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Adaptive Golf Clinic

A man using an adaptive golf cart prepares to tee off while two other people watch.

Thursday, June 4, 2026

10:00 - 11:30 pm OR 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Stony Creek Metropark, Shelby Township

Whether you are new to golf or want to learn to use adaptive golf equipment, our therapists and golf pros will assist. All equipment is provided.

Questions about Adaptive Golf?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Games in the Park

Young man playing corn hole.
Two people playing 4 in a Row Connect Game. One person uses a wheelchair.
A man using a wheelchair throws a football at bowling pins in a park as another man holding a football watches.

Have fun playing games outdoors and making new friends! It’s a great chance to relax, laugh, and spend time with others in a friendly, welcoming space.

Games in the Park - Clarkston

June 10, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm

Independence Oaks, Clarkston

Games in the Park - Troy

July 23, 2026 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm

James C. Nelson Park, Troy

Questions about Games in the Park?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Adaptive Kayaking

3 people wearing lifejackets are kayaking on a lake. One kayak has outriggers and a paddle pivot.

Take a one-hour adaptive kayaking lesson designed for individuals with disabilities, ages 8 and older. No prior kayaking experience is required. All adaptive equipment and modifications are provided to ensure a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.


Kayaks have a maximum weight capacity of 225 pounds, and all equipment is age-rated for participants ages 8 and up. Due to high demand, a $10 donation is required to reserve a spot in this program.

Kayaking on June 11, 2026

Reserve a one-hour spot between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm

40th St./Thompson Pond, Port Huron

Kayaking on June 24, 2026

Reserve a one-hour spot between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm

Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston

Questions about Adaptive Kayaking?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

Register for a DNEM Community Activity

Disability Network Eastern Michigan (DNEM) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL), proudly serving Huron, Lapeer, Macomb, Oakland, Sanilac, St. Clair, and Tuscola counties. If you reside outside of these counties, we’re happy to assist you in connecting with the CIL that serves your area. 



To register for DNEM activities, you will need a RecDesk calendar account.

Phone displaying website DNEM.RecDesk.com

To help with the registration process, we have created these two videos:

Questions about RecDesk?

Contact the RecConnect Team

REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org

586-268-4160

We Are Here to Help

Community Living Supports logo. A Disability Network Eastern Michigan Program. Information and options start here.
Woman with a hearing aid using a smart phone.

Disability Network Eastern Michigan has a team of Community Information Specialists ready to assist you in finding resources. We can support inquiries about advocacy, accessibility, housing resources, transportation, high school transition, community transition services, veteran services, and more. Call us!

Oakland and Macomb County:

586-268-4160

Thumb Region:

810-987-9337

Accommodations: Please contact DNEM with accommodation requests.

A young man is hugging a young woman from behind. The text says be the light in someone's dark moment. Mental health awareness month.

Do you need support now?

Or are you worried about a loved one who may need crisis support?

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Your conversations are free and confidential.


Text, call, or chat 988.

Access to 988 is also available for Deaf/HoH and Spanish speakers.

Five yellow stars in a row

Your Consumer Experience Defines Our Success

It is our pleasure to serve the community as we believe people with disabilities should have the same options, and control over choices in their own lives as do people without disabilities. We hope you will share your experience with us, allowing us to connect with others who will benefit from our services. Please take a moment to provide a Google review.

Disability Network Eastern Michigan is committed to promoting independent living by breaking down barriers and opening paths towards personal choice through resources, advocacy, information, support, and education.

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