At the Friendship Adventures Day Program, we don’t just talk about making waves—we dive right in. Whether we’re out on the town or gathered around the craft table, this month’s theme is coming to life in every splash, swirl, and smile. Making Waves is all about movement, impact, and the joyful ripple effects that come from shared experiences—and lately, those ripples have been nothing short of magical. 

We’ve been riding a wave of summer fun with some truly memorable adventures. Spray parks have offered cool relief and a reason to laugh out loud. A visit to the massive Aquarium Co-Op gave us a close-up look at underwater life—fish of every shape and color darting through the tanks, captivating everyone in the room. And our trip to the Ballard Locks was filled with curiosity as we watched the boats move through the water and marveled at the salmon ladder in action. 

But the adventure doesn’t stop at the door. 

Inside our building, something beautiful has been unfolding—a collaborative mural that has turned one of our walls into a bright, whimsical underwater world. With help from all of our participants, we’ve created a colorful ocean scene complete with shimmering fish, flowing jellyfish, sea anemones, and scattered shells. Each piece is hand-cut, hand-painted, and full of personality—just like the people who made them. 

This mural isn’t just art—it’s expression. It’s ownership. It’s pride. And just like waves leave their mark on the shore, each participant has left their unique imprint on our space. As the wall has come to life, so have the conversations, the laughter, and the shared sense of accomplishment. It’s more than just decoration—it’s a living celebration of creativity, cooperation, and connection. 

Awash in Color is the feeling that surrounds us right now. Bright hues, joyful movement, and the deep, steady rhythm of growth are present in every corner of the program. Whether it’s through a splash at the spray park, a fish-shaped paper cutout, or the quiet pride of pointing to your own artwork on the wall, our participants are making waves—in the room, in each other’s lives, and in the hearts of everyone who walks through our doors. 

Shawna Burkholder

Program Director

Friendship Adventures