A Day at the Zoo: Recreation, Connection, and Belonging

June 24, 2026

Residents kick off summer with adventure, friendship, and unforgettable experiences at the Minnesota Zoo.

Summer Adventures Begin

Some of the best days begin with a simple question: “Where are we going today?”

Exploring the Minnesota Zoo

For residents from Fountain Lane, Medicine Lake, Webster House, Winnetka, and Althea, the answer recently led to a day filled with discovery, laughter, and unforgettable memories at the Minnesota Zoo. The outing marked one of the first major recreation events of the summer and provided opportunities for individuals from several Homeward Bound homes to come together and enjoy a shared experience.

Moments Worth Remembering

From the moment participants arrived, excitement filled the air. Residents explored the Tropics Trail, visited favorite animals, shared meals together, and spent time reconnecting with friends from across the organization. The outing wasn’t just about seeing animals. It was about creating opportunities for connection.

For many individuals, recreation experiences like these provide important opportunities to engage with the broader community, build relationships, strengthen independence, and experience the joy that comes from trying something new. The day also offered plenty of moments worth remembering.

One resident enthusiastically encouraged everyone to return in the evening to experience Wanderlight, the Zoo’s illuminated lantern exhibit. Another spent extra time observing animals on the Tropics Trail.
Others simply enjoyed spending the day outdoors with friends.

While each person’s experience was unique, a common theme emerged throughout the day: belonging.

As Homeward Bound President and CEO Rob Edwards often says:

“Communities like Homeward Bound live out the act of being in community every day by creating places where individuals are known by name, valued for who they are, and reminded that they are family here.”

Experiences like Day at the Zoo bring those words to life.

Why Experiences Like These Matter

These outings are about more than recreation.

They are about creating opportunities for people to participate fully in community life, develop friendships, build confidence, and create memories that last long after the day ends. As Homeward Bound continues expanding recreation opportunities through Adventure Club and other initiatives, experiences like these remind us why that work matters.

Everyone deserves opportunities to explore.
Everyone deserves opportunities to connect.
Everyone deserves opportunities to belong.