OUR STORYBlossom began with one young woman and one family navigating a major turning point. After graduating from college, she wanted to continue her adult life in her community. She hoped to find a place of her own and a sense of belonging, but the path forward was unclear. Her family reached out for guidance, and with the support of what would become Blossom’s leadership team, they created a plan that helped her take meaningful steps toward independent living.
Through this process, something important became clear. She was not the only adult with IDD facing this transition without a roadmap. Many families were trying to navigate adulthood on their own, often without the resources or support they needed.
From this realization, a larger vision started to take shape. What began as one family’s journey grew into a nonprofit dedicated to supporting adults with IDD as they build lives filled with connection, purpose, and community.
Today, Blossom carries that early spirit forward and continues to grow into a sustainable, community-centered organization that serves families across Ozaukee County in Wisconsin and the surrounding areas.
Our Founders, Cindy and Mike Purnell, with their daughter Dakota.
Our Mission
To support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in building meaningful, connected lives by providing guidance, community experiences, and life-building opportunities beyond structured programming.
Our Vision
A world where every adult with IDD has access to community, opportunities, and ongoing guidance throughout all stages of adulthood.
Who We Serve
We support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the families and caregivers who support them. Our work is especially beneficial for individuals who:
have recently exited high school, college, or transition services
are seeking connection and community beyond structured programs
attend a day program but need additional opportunities outside those hours
want safe and supported ways to explore new experiences
benefit from help navigating community resources and opportunities
live with parents or caregivers but want meaningful experiences with their peers
Every adult with IDD deserves a meaningful life filled with connection, joy, and choice. We help make that possible by supporting individuals and creating community for the families who love them.
Why Blossom Is Different
Many adults with IDD participate in valuable day programs that offer important structure, care, and support. However, these programs cannot meet every need. Life continues after the program day ends, and that is often where families feel the greatest uncertainty.
Blossom fills this part of the journey.
We offer guidance that is tailored to each individual and family. We connect people to existing community programs, social groups, and resources. We create experiences that build confidence and belonging. We walk with families as they navigate daily life and long-term transitions.
Blossom’s work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and connection. We support adults with IDD and their families, offering:
Clarity about what resources exist and how to access them
Choice in how to spend time and build daily life
Connection to peers and community
Confidence gained through experiences, exploration, and growth
We believe adulthood is more than a schedule. It is a life to be lived fully.
Our Approach
Blossom offers three main areas of support designed to complement existing programs and fill the gaps families experience:
Tools, Resources, and Information
Helping families navigate adulthood and understand what options exist.
Community-Based Experiences
Creating opportunities for adults with IDD to build friendships, skills, and confidence in real-world environments.
Travel Experiences
Unique trips that foster independence, exploration, and growth.
Our Areas of Support
Blossom serves adults with IDD and their support systems throughout Ozaukee County in Wisconsin with growing connections across the surrounding region.
Where We Serve
We believe in transparency and trust. Below you will find a link to important documents and reports that reflect our commitment to responsible stewardship and meaningful community impact.