It’s what every human seeks — to feel welcomed, included, and that you fit within a place or group.
Inspired by our founder, Isaac Wolfe Bernheim’s vision, Bernheim embraces Belonging as a core value and works to offer an inclusive, welcoming environment to all.
With more than 16,000 acres, it’s easy to let the land take the lead in delivering our mission of connecting people with nature. Beautiful landscapes of rolling knobs full of lush forest, an arboretum abundant with gorgeous collections and meadows, ephemeral streams, and our sparkling ponds and lakes connect anyone to nature by sight alone.
At Bernheim, we steward our precious land intentionally so that all can connect with nature. To offer a sense of ‘ecological belonging’ — our interconnectedness to ourselves, each other, and our natural environment — our staff creates engaging programs and events that deliver diverse ways to immerse in nature, while considering the various abilities and needs of every visitor.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. reported having a disability in 2022. As a destination for respite, recreation, and more, we are continuously thinking of how to offer access to those needing a bit of assistance in physically and emotionally connecting with nature.
Studies show time in nature supports well-being, has a direct correlation to health outcomes, and helps to reduce overstimulation and stress. We believe these organic healing powers, combined with a sense of belonging, make for a powerful antidote to life’s challenges and that everyone interacting with Bernheim can experience harmonious relationships with nature, no matter their ability.
Over the last several years, we’ve increased our efforts to make Bernheim more physically accessible. Our team has made improvements to help visitors move through the Arboretum. Through generous gifts from WHAS Crusade for Children, we’ve purchased an all-terrain GRIT wheelchair and safety helmets that visitors can reserve before their visit.
We have increased and improved pathways to be more pedestrian-focused, added ADA-compliant portalets and restrooms where possible, and implemented new wayfinding signage that is easily seen. A new electric tram with wheelchair accessibility enables Rangers to help those who need to move safely. Training from VisitAble enhances how staff interact, accommodate, and welcome people with disabilities, ensuring they feel valued as equals.
Created in 2022 in partnership with Kentucky School for the Blind and Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT), the Sensory Garden gives the visually impaired and those sensitive and/or on the spectrum an up-close and intimate experience that engages all senses to connect with nature. Additionally, through our partnership with Spalding University’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, trail descriptions were updated to help with understanding the natural environment, access to shade and water, and more so visitors can plan, and experiences can be enjoyed by any and all.
“By listening to and learning from those who have navigated barriers in their lives firsthand, Bernheim can more effectively encourage inclusion—ensuring that experiences are not only accessible, but also enriching and supportive of peer interactions for everyone who visits and enjoys the space,” explained Rhonda Logsdon, Executive Director at KY-SPIN, Inc. “This commitment helps build stronger, more connected communities and sets a standard for inclusive engagement in public spaces.”
Expansions in Playcosystem make play in nature more accessible as well! Pathways provide wheelchair access to enter our new Clubhouse, Trading Post, and Treehouse (opening in Fall 2025), ensuring children and adults in wheelchairs can experience off-the-ground adventure! We’ve worked with partners like Jefferson County Public Schools’ adapted sports team, Louisville Lightning, on inclusive designs and features that welcome and encourage all ranges of abilities in natural play. Children of all abilities can take advantage of picnic tables, a connected sand table at our large sandpit, and an accessible challenge course area.
“By intentionally creating welcoming and accessible opportunities for families to play and learn together, Bernheim fosters equity, supports lifelong learning, and strengthens family connections,” added Logsdon.
Art in nature is another way visitors experience and connect with their sense of ecological belonging. As envisioned by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim, art inspires an emotional, personal connection to our natural world beyond the facts and science of our environment. The immersive L+A+N+D: an experience of discovery, provides direct access to unique installations from artists around the world. ADA-compliant amenities and pathways meander through the woods. Benches offer shady spots to sit and soak in nature, and a new water bottle and dog bowl fountain provide comforts for anyone moving through this inspiring area.
Fostering a sense of belonging is a long-standing commitment to Bernheim’s visitors and members. We’ve improved and enhanced access in a number of ways. Through gifts, grants, partnerships, and innovation, we will continue to facilitate a connection with nature for ALL who visit.
