Exciting New Clubs Launch at Fantastic Friends in 2026

We are thrilled to share an exciting evolution of our Fantastic Friends program in 2026! This year, we’ve introduced a brand-new lineup of CLUBS designed specifically for our adult population—and the impact has already been incredible!

One of the most meaningful changes has been our shift to smaller group sizes supported by an increased number of dedicated volunteers. This structure has allowed each adult to receive more individualized attention, deeper support, and stronger connections within their group. Since making this change, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in engagement, confidence, participation, and joy across all clubs. Adults are more involved, more curious, and more excited to show up, try new things, and build new skills.

Equally exciting, the content itself feels fresh, intentional, and energizing. Each club offers a unique focus area, allowing participants to explore new interests while strengthening important life skills in a supportive and fun environment.

PowerHouse Club – Mind, Body & Spirit Wellness

PowerHouse Club supports whole-person wellness by blending gentle movement with emotional and spiritual care. Participants explore yoga-inspired stretching, balance work, breathing exercises, guided meditation, mindfulness walks, aromatherapy, relaxation tools, and soothing rituals like enjoying hot tea together. Strength and balance activities are woven throughout to promote grounding, confidence, and overall well-being. This club has quickly become a calming and empowering space where adults feel centered, capable, and cared for.

Chat & Connect Club – Language & Social Skills

Chat & Connect Club focuses on communication, confidence, and connection. Through guided discussions, role-playing, partner interviews, storytelling, teamwork challenges, and community practice, participants strengthen expressive language and social interaction skills. The emphasis is on building relationships and helping each person expand their voice. The smaller group setting has allowed for richer conversations and meaningful peer connections, and participants have shown growing confidence in expressing themselves.

Skill Builders Studio – Fine & Gross Motor Skills through Arts & Games

Skill Builders Studio is a hands-on, creative environment where movement and artistry come together. Participants engage in crafting, painting, building projects, interactive games, sensory activities, and purposeful movement tasks that strengthen fine and gross motor skills. The studio-style format encourages focus, coordination, creativity, and pride in skill mastery. Adults have shown strong enthusiasm for creating tangible projects and celebrating their accomplishments.

GiGi’s Groove Room – Music & Dance

GiGi’s Groove Room is a high-energy favorite filled with rhythm, music, and movement. Participants explore simple choreography, percussion instruments, rhythm patterns, expressive movement, and music from different cultures. This club builds confidence, coordination, and pure joy. The excitement in the room is contagious, and participants light up as they move, create, and express themselves through music.

LifeCraft Club – Life & Leisure Skills

LifeCraft Club centers on independence and meaningful daily living. Activities include cooking basics, organizing tasks, hobby exploration, job skills practice, community outings, and personal development projects. This club empowers participants to build practical skills that enhance everyday life while discovering interests that bring purpose and fulfillment. Adults have shown growing confidence as they practice skills they can carry into their daily routines.

BloomWorks Studio – Blooms, Business & Entrepreneurship

BloomWorks Studio blends creativity with entrepreneurship. Participants learn flower arranging, event preparation, packaging, inventory basics, teamwork, customer service, and what it means to create a “market-ready” product. With a focus on microenterprise and real-world application, adults gain hands-on experience and confidence in their ability to contribute meaningfully—whether through GiGi’s Blooms or future creative ventures. The pride participants take in their work has been truly inspiring.

Growth for Participants and Volunteers

These changes have also brought exciting growth on the volunteer side. With smaller groups, volunteers have been able to build stronger relationships with participants and step into leadership roles. We’ve seen several new volunteers take initiative, bring creative ideas to life, and demonstrate their own talents in program planning and facilitation. This has created a dynamic, collaborative environment where volunteers feel empowered and valued, and participants benefit from thoughtful, engaging programming.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 Fantastic Friends CLUBS have brought renewed energy, deeper connection, and meaningful skill-building to our community. We are proud of the growth we’re seeing—in our adults, our volunteers, and our program as a whole—and we can’t wait to continue building on this momentum.

The excitement is real, the engagement is strong, and the future is bright at Fantastic Friends. 💛