2023 CAPS Retreat – A Rumbling Good Time!

Members of the statewide team rallied at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company headquarters for a full day of fun, friendship, and celebration. The use of this historic venue, made possible by the strong philanthropic partnership between Children’s Wisconsin and Harley-Davidson, was the perfect location for the growing team.

Welcomed by a continental breakfast and 18 raffle baskets to peruse, MCW and CW CAPS employees had the opportunity to gather, connect and take advantage of activities. Posts located within the nearly 6,000 square foot conference space included a tattoo station, a photo booth with a giant Harley Trike, and a “Resilience Wall” where guests could reflect and document their personal approach to tapping into strength and tenacity. The day began with the recognition of new staff and notable anniversaries. New to this year’s celebration, the Collaboration Awards were the perfect opportunity to acknowledge and honor strong community connections. Chosen by each CAPS location around the state these community allies were praised for their support and commitment to children served by our state’s CACs.

Harley-Davidson’s reach extended further into the retreat with a visit from four members of Bikers Against Child Abuse. These self-appointed "Keepers of the Children" shared their heartfelt and empowering approach to supporting and protecting children affected by all forms of child abuse. This powerful presentation culminated in the form of a traveling teddy bear infused with the hugs of each audience member that will be shared with a future child abuse survivor.

After a shared lunch, retreat members let loose and shared some laughs by way of Milwaukee’s own Comedy Sportz and basket raffle giveaways were the concluding activities of this day-long event. CAPS team members left this year’s festivities with a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie.