MENOMONIE – In the heart of Menomonie, the Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center offers a welcoming and supportive space for anyone seeking connection and a sense of community. Operated by Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA), the center is a hub where individuals can gather, share experiences, and access resources, all in a safe, non-judgmental environment. While Kaleidoscope is especially supportive of those facing mental health and substance use challenges, the center is open to anyone who feels the need for companionship, social activities, or personal growth.
A Place for Everyone
Kaleidoscope’s doors are open to all. Whether someone is new to the area, feeling isolated, or simply looking for a sense of belonging, the center offers a space to connect with others who understand the value of mutual support. Visitors don’t need to be in crisis or seeking formal services to participate. It’s a place where anyone, regardless of their background or situation, can drop in, have a cup of coffee, and engage with a caring community.
“At Kaleidoscope, we believe that everyone has something valuable to offer,” says Andrew Garr, Program Director. “It’s a place where people can build relationships, participate in activities, and find support at their own pace. The emphasis is on connection and empowerment.”
Peer Support at the Center
One of the core elements of Kaleidoscope is peer support, a model where individuals with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges offer guidance and companionship to others. Peer supporters at the center don’t act as therapists or counselors but as equals who have walked similar paths. This approach helps create a relaxed, trusting atmosphere where visitors can be themselves, knowing they are understood without judgment.
The power of peer support lies in the shared experience—visitors know they’re talking with someone who truly gets it. This mutual understanding fosters meaningful conversations, offers hope, and helps build resilience, whether someone is struggling with personal issues or just looking for a community of like-minded individuals.
Programs and Activities
Kaleidoscope offers a variety of programs and activities that promote wellness, creativity, and self-improvement. These include group discussions, wellness workshops, arts and crafts, and social events like movie nights and game days. The center also hosts resource workshops on topics such as budgeting, self-care, and job readiness, helping people build skills that enhance their overall well-being.
For those who prefer a quieter experience, Kaleidoscope provides spaces for reflection, relaxation, and solo activities like reading or journaling. The center is designed to be flexible, allowing visitors to engage with others as much or as little as they want.
No Barriers, Just Support
One of the most important aspects of Kaleidoscope is that it’s completely free and open to the public. There’s no need for appointments, referrals, or insurance—anyone can simply walk in. This barrier-free access ensures that people from all walks of life have the opportunity to connect with others and benefit from the peer-driven support the center provides.
Whether someone is feeling lonely, wants to meet new people, or is going through a tough time, Kaleidoscope is a resource available to all. It’s a place where connection happens naturally, and where people leave feeling more grounded and supported.
How to Visit Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center is located at 800 Wilson Ave, Room 41 in Menomonie and is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you’d like to learn more about the programs offered or have questions about what to expect, feel free to call (715) 231-3055 or stop by during open hours. No appointment is necessary—just drop in, say hello, and be part of a community that values connection and inclusivity.
Why Kaleidoscope Matters
In a time when many people feel disconnected or overwhelmed, Kaleidoscope offers a vital space where everyone is welcome, and no one is alone. The center embodies Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance’s mission of fostering mutual support, empathy, and community building. By providing a space where people can come together, Kaleidoscope helps break down the barriers of isolation and offers a sense of belonging to anyone who needs it.
If you’re looking for a place to find connection, develop friendships, or simply spend time in a supportive environment, Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center is here for you.
Andrew Garr is the Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. He has over a decade of experience in peer support and community outreach.
Sources: