Safari Adventure Highlights the Power of Recreation

The Arc Mercer’s Coaster Club has spent the summer making monthly trips to Six Flags Great Adventure, giving consumers the opportunity to enjoy thrilling rides, build friendships, and experience all the excitement the park has to offer. During their most recent visit, the group took a journey through the Six Flags Wild Safari.

While recreation is always about having fun, experiences like the safari offer additional opportunities for learning, discovery, and community engagement. As consumers traveled through the preserve, they were able to observe animals from around the world in a naturalistic setting, sparking curiosity and creating meaningful conversations about wildlife, habitats, and conservation.

The outing also serves as a reminder of the tremendous amount of work that goes into creating meaningful recreational opportunities throughout the year. During the first six months of 2026 alone, Arc Mercer residential staff organized 1,889 community recreation outings for the individuals who live in the agency's homes—an average of approximately 315 outings every month. From local attractions and sporting events to seasonal celebrations and destination trips like Six Flags, these experiences help individuals stay active, connected, and engaged in their communities.

Community-based outings expose individuals to new experiences that encourage personal growth and lifelong learning. Whether it is riding a roller coaster, exploring a new attraction, or seeing a giraffe up close for the first time, these moments help build confidence, encourage social interaction, and create lasting memories.

The safari provided an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the natural world. Consumers enjoyed spotting different animals throughout the tour, sharing observations with friends, and taking in sights that many had never experienced before. For some, the highlight was seeing animals up close. For others, it was simply spending the day alongside friends and staff while exploring something new together.

The continued success of the Coaster Club demonstrates the value of offering diverse recreational opportunities that reflect the interests of the people we support. More importantly, it reflects the dedication of the staff members who make these experiences possible. Behind every recreation outing is planning, transportation coordination, supervision, and a commitment to ensuring consumers can safely participate in activities that enrich their lives.

As Arc Mercer continues to average more than 300 community outings every month, each trip serves as another example of how recreation supports confidence, independence, friendship, and community inclusion. The Recreation Department and residential teams deserve tremendous credit for creating opportunities that help consumers live active, connected, and fulfilling lives.