People supported at Rise in New Richmond can be found volunteering at community centers, tending vegetables at local produce farms, and reading books in libraries across St. Croix County and beyond. These outings are as varied as the people themselves, and each one designed to build connections and confidence.

But one of the most unique, and eagerly anticipated, outings brings together two things not often paired: fitness and art.

Country Fit and Brush Strokes Creative share a retail space just across from the renowned creamery in Ellsworth, Wisc. Their business models are different: Country Fit offers health smoothies and fitness classes for all income levels, and Brush Strokes Creative specializes in gifts, art supplies, and hands on art classes. But their shared space has sparked a creative collaboration.

Each week, the two businesses come together to host Fit Art, a program that has quickly become a favorite of people supported at Rise.

“We like to say it’s one hour each week combining a half hour of movement and a half hour of art, says CJ Pedersen, who leads the fitness portion. “It also depends on how many people attend, so every week is a little bit different.” She says the idea began when a group stopped in for an art project. “We thought, ‘We should invite Rise,’ Then other groups started coming, and it really took off.”

With grant funding available for about a year, Fit Art was offered at no cost, making it accessible to more people. Word spread quickly and soon Rise participants found themselves sharing the space with other community groups, all showing up for the same reason.

“It’s fun seeing everyone come together,” Pedersen says. “Some already know each other, and some are meeting for the first time They’re cheering each other on.”

Accessibility is at the heart of the program

“We make sure everyone can participate, which means a lot of planning,” says Kayleen Jakes of Brush Strokes Creative. “I tried to duplicate a project once, and they let me know that wasn’t going to work!”

Projects range from mugs to seasonal ornaments and beyond. And the group is focused during their visits. You will find them either quietly working on projects or visiting together.

“I love doing arts and crafts,” says Michelle Kennedy, pausing between brush strokes on a holiday-themed ornament while sipping her strawberry angel food cake shake. “I’ve already made a few things here to take home.”

While planning can be demanding, Jakes says the effort is more than worth it. “We love it,” she said. “If we could duplicate ourselves and have 15 of us, I think we could do this everywhere.”

By blending fitness and creativity, Country Fit and Brush Strokes Creative have found a sweet spot, bringing together Rise and other groups from across west-central Wisconsin. It’s more than a class or an outing; it’s a shared experience of people who move, create, and connect together.