Facilitation Services

Warren Conference Center and Inn offers facilitation services through our partner Backyard Journeys. 

Backyard Journeys offers both indoor and outdoor activities to accomplish your goals whether it be community building, employee engagement, or professional development. 

Ready to start planning with Backyard Journey’s?

View their many different initiatives based on desired outcome below! 

Outcomes & Initiatives

Teamwork and Collaboration

Teamwork and collaboration are essential in the workplace as they foster creativity, improve problem-solving, and enhance productivity. By combining diverse skills, perspectives, and strengths, teams can tackle challenges more effectively and achieve common goals. 

Pipeline
The team must transport as many marbles as possible to a designated container using only the tools provided. Groups are expected to adhere to tough “quality parameters” and successfully forecast their expected results before each round.
Cycle Time/Quatum Puzzle
This activity has sub-teams building a complex, 3-dimensional wooden puzzle and developing a system for repeating the process with speed and accuracy. Once the task is initially accomplished, the entire team is given the very challenging task of positioning as many groups as possible to complete the task in less than 60 seconds.
Kaizen/Keypunch
In this high energy activity, the team is given the ambiguous task of debugging a system by touching a series of numbers in sequence against a stopwatch. After an initial series of rapid attempts, they come together to analyze their current process and work toward a more efficient one. As the activity progresses, the participants realize that in order to improve they must challenge their notions as what a “great time” is, and work toward an initially unforeseen breakthrough.
Magnifying Glass
In this difficult communication skills training activity, each participant is handed a picture that no one else is allowed to see. In 3 rounds of information sharing, the entire team must line the pictures in the correct sequence.
Mohawk Walk
The Mohawk Walk is series of foot cables strung between trees or poles, typically in a zig zag pattern. The object is to get the entire group from the first tree to the last without touching the ground, and without the aid of foreign objects (sticks or people standing on the ground). The group must create a strategy, assign roles, work as a team, and assess progress throughout the entire activity.
Group Juggle
A get to know each other activity that will test a group’s memory and multi-tasking skills.
Blind Escape
A communication-based activity which requires the entire group to follow a predetermined roped path while blindfolded. With the team having to work together throughout, the path takes them along a challenging array of terrain changes and obstacle maneuvers.
Stepping Stones
The group must move from point A to point B using only the props provided while following certain rules. This seemingly simple activity is deceivingly complex and requires a good amount of thinking and cooperation.
On Target
The group is divided into separate sub-groups and given a task of earning as many points as possible in 90-second rounds by tossing the provided objects into containers. At first this activity seems to be competitive and chaotic, but as it progresses the participants find that they must challenge their own assumptions about competition, problem solving, and “the way it’s always been done”. To surpass the identified goals, participants must eventually create a collaborative and time-efficient system.
Sabotage
The team is given a set of playing cards. An identical set of playing cards is spread out in a unique pattern on the ground at one end of the activity space. Taking individual turns to study the pattern, the team must try to recreate it identically, However, there may be someone on their team who has been assigned the task of disrupting their process. The team must navigate this intense dynamic as they try to solve the challenge.
Islands
The large group is divided into sub-groups representing various levels within an organization. They are charged with the task of all reaching the same destination from various locations. Each group must overcome certain unique process obstacles while assisting each other in achieving the project goal. This complex activity will challenge the team’s mental and creative strength.
Ford Story
A humorous communications activity designed to highlight the pitfalls of imprecise information sharing. 3 to 4 individuals leave the main room and return one at a time to listen to – and then repeat – a given story. All of the observers will work off of a checklist identifying what pieces of critical information was lost in the retelling.
Extreme Bridge
This activity that involves numerous sub-teams to each build a section of a bridge using only cardboard and duct tape. Two teams build 8-foot ramps while the others build 4- foot span sections using the specs provided. The entire team will then come together and assemble the sections to form a bridge so strong that a manned pull cart or golf cart can be driven across it! The activity culminates with the entire group standing on the bridge for pictures
Maze
In this challenging initiative you and your group must find your way through grid maze with a predetermined path while adhering to the rules. The group must first figure out the correct path by going one at a time. As a group you need to remember the correct path and then get everyone through the maze. The Maze will challenge your memory, attention to details and your group’s collaboration skills.

Communication Skills

Creative thinking and problem-solving drive innovation and help overcome challenges. By approaching problems from different angles and generating fresh ideas, employees can find effective solutions that improve efficiency, productivity, and overall success.

Blocked Perspective
This exciting and challenging initiative is about communicating different points of view. The objective is to accurately re-create the block structure depicted in the photographs while following the rules of the activity.
Magnifying Glass
In this difficult communication skills training activity, each participant is handed a picture that no one else is allowed to see. In 3 rounds of information sharing, the entire team must line the pictures in the correct sequence.
Speed Order
Utilizing a deck of traditional playing cards, sub-teams will work at putting the decks in order as quickly as possible based on the sequencing identified by the facilitator. Several rounds and a surprise curveball mid-activity add to the challenge.
Blind Escape
A communication-based activity which requires the entire group to follow a predetermined roped path while blindfolded. With the team having to work together throughout, the path takes them along a challenging array of terrain changes and obstacle maneuvers.
Stepping Stones
The group must move from point A to point B using only the props provided while following certain rules. This seemingly simple activity is deceivingly complex and requires a good amount of thinking and cooperation.
Color Blind
In this challenging communication skills event, each of the participants is given a number of pieces of material that they must describe to each other while blindfolded. The information sharing must be so precise that they will be able to determine what is missing from the larger set.
On Target
The group is divided into separate sub-groups and given a task of earning as many points as possible in 90-second rounds by tossing the provided objects into containers. At first this activity seems to be competitive and chaotic, but as it progresses the participants find that they must challenge their own assumptions about competition, problem solving, and “the way it’s always been done”. To surpass the identified goals, participants must eventually create a collaborative and time-efficient system.
Islands
The large group is divided into sub-groups representing various levels within an organization. They are charged with the task of all reaching the same destination from various locations. Each group must overcome certain unique process obstacles while assisting each other in achieving the project goal. This complex activity will challenge the team’s mental and creative strength.
Ford Story
A humorous communications activity designed to highlight the pitfalls of imprecise information sharing. 3 to 4 individuals leave the main room and return one at a time to listen to – and then repeat – a given story. All of the observers will work off of a checklist identifying what pieces of critical information was lost in the retelling.
Extreme Bridge
This activity that involves numerous sub-teams to each build a section of a bridge using only cardboard and duct tape. Two teams build 8-foot ramps while the others build 4- foot span sections using the specs provided. The entire team will then come together and assemble the sections to form a bridge so strong that a manned pull cart or golf cart can be driven across it! The activity culminates with the entire group standing on the bridge for pictures.
Mute Card Lineup
Teams are required to line-up using decks of traditional playing cards in a specific sequence without talking or using any audio communication. Body language, hand gestures and the development of a non-verbal communication system will be necessary for success during this event.
Structure
The large group is split into groups of 4 or 5. This communication and team skills activity includes a storekeeper, a “runner”, a looker, and a builder. Each of the 4 roles is critical to the successful completion of building the structure. The lookers are the only ones that can see the Structure. They pass information along to the runner who communicates to the buyers what should be purchased at the store. The runner also brings the materials to the builder location – in a totally separate area – and shares the verbal building information. At the end of the time frame, each of the new structures are brought to the main function space and examined to determine accuracy.
Raft Build
This exciting and challenging activity has teams of about 8-10 people working together to build a raft out of a limited supply of materials. Each team is provided with the same material which include barrels, ropes and planks. The teams then need to tap into their creative side to construct a sturdy raft. After all the rafts have been completed it is time for them to be tested on the water. Members are chosen from each team to sail on the rafts while the rest of the team cheers them on.
Maze
In this challenging initiative you and your group must find your way through grid maze with a predetermined path while adhering to the rules. The group must first figure out the correct path by going one at a time. As a group you need to remember the correct path and then get everyone through the maze. The Maze will challenge your memory, attention to details and your group’s collaboration skills.

Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

Communication ensures clarity, reduces misunderstandings, and fosters strong collaboration. Open and effective communication allows team members to share ideas, provide feedback, and align on goals, leading to improved productivity and a positive work environment.

Blocked Perspective
This exciting and challenging initiative is about communicating different points of view. The objective is to accurately re-create the block structure depicted in the photographs while following the rules of the activity.
Kaizen/Keypunch
In this high energy activity, the team is given the ambiguous task of debugging a system by touching a series of numbers in sequence against a stopwatch. After an initial series of rapid attempts, they come together to analyze their current process and work toward a more efficient one. As the activity progresses, the participants realize that in order to improve they must challenge their notions as what a “great time” is, and work toward an initially unforeseen breakthrough.
Speed Order
Utilizing a deck of traditional playing cards, sub-teams will work at putting the decks in order as quickly as possible based on the sequencing identified by the facilitator. Several rounds and a surprise curveball mid-activity add to the challenge.
Shrinking Glaciers
The team is required to carefully stand on walking pads within a circle while they are slowly eliminated one-by-one. Rotational leadership and decision make this activity very interactive with everyone responsible for the ultimate outcome.
Mohawk Walk
The Mohawk Walk is series of foot cables strung between trees or poles, typically in a zig zag pattern. The object is to get the entire group from the first tree to the last without touching the ground, and without the aid of foreign objects (sticks or people standing on the ground). The group must create a strategy, assign roles, work as a team, and assess progress throughout the entire activity.
Group Juggle
A get to know each other activity that will test a group’s memory and multi-tasking skills.
Stepping Stones
The group must move from point A to point B using only the props provided while following certain rules. This seemingly simple activity is deceivingly complex and requires a good amount of thinking and cooperation.
Mass Pass
“Mass Pass” where the large team operates as a single unit to pass items along a rectangle while following specific instructions and guidelines
On Target
The group is divided into separate sub-groups and given a task of earning as many points as possible in 90-second rounds by tossing the provided objects into containers. At first this activity seems to be competitive and chaotic, but as it progresses the participants find that they must challenge their own assumptions about competition, problem solving, and “the way it’s always been done”. To surpass the identified goals, participants must eventually create a collaborative and time-efficient system.
Islands
The large group is divided into sub-groups representing various levels within an organization. They are charged with the task of all reaching the same destination from various locations. Each group must overcome certain unique process obstacles while assisting each other in achieving the project goal. This complex activity will challenge the team’s mental and creative strength.
Extreme Bridge
This activity that involves numerous sub-teams to each build a section of a bridge using only cardboard and duct tape. Two teams build 8-foot ramps while the others build 4- foot span sections using the specs provided. The entire team will then come together and assemble the sections to form a bridge so strong that a manned pull cart or golf cart can be driven across it! The activity culminates with the entire group standing on the bridge for pictures.
Mute Card Lineup
Teams are required to line-up using decks of traditional playing cards in a specific sequence without talking or using any audio communication. Body language, hand gestures and the development of a non-verbal communication system will be necessary for success during this event.
Raft Build
This exciting and challenging activity has teams of about 8-10 people working together to build a raft out of a limited supply of materials. Each team is provided with the same material which include barrels, ropes and planks. The teams then need to tap into their creative side to construct a sturdy raft. After all the rafts have been completed it is time for them to be tested on the water. Members are chosen from each team to sail on the rafts while the rest of the team cheers them on.

Decision Making & Leadership

Effective decision-making and leadership guide teams toward success and ensure that goals are achieved efficiently. Strong leaders make informed, timely decisions that inspire confidence, set clear direction, and motivate employees. 

Blocked Perspective
This exciting and challenging initiative is about communicating different points of view. The objective is to accurately re-create the block structure depicted in the photographs while following the rules of the activity.
Cycle Time/Quatum Puzzle
This activity has sub-teams building a complex, 3-dimensional wooden puzzle and developing a system for repeating the process with speed and accuracy. Once the task is initially accomplished, the entire team is given the very challenging task of positioning as many groups as possible to complete the task in less than 60 seconds.
Magnifying Glass
In this difficult communication skills training activity, each participant is handed a picture that no one else is allowed to see. In 3 rounds of information sharing, the entire team must line the pictures in the correct sequence.
Shrinking Glaciers
The team is required to carefully stand on walking pads within a circle while they are slowly eliminated one-by-one. Rotational leadership and decision make this activity very interactive with everyone responsible for the ultimate outcome.
Stepping Stones
The group must move from point A to point B using only the props provided while following certain rules. This seemingly simple activity is deceivingly complex and requires a good amount of thinking and cooperation.
Sabotage
The team is given a set of playing cards. An identical set of playing cards is spread out in a unique pattern on the ground at one end of the activity space. Taking individual turns to study the pattern, the team must try to recreate it identically, However, there may be someone on their team who has been assigned the task of disrupting their process. The team must navigate this intense dynamic as they try to solve the challenge.
Mute Card Lineup
Teams are required to line-up using decks of traditional playing cards in a specific sequence without talking or using any audio communication. Body language, hand gestures and the development of a non-verbal communication system will be necessary for success during this event.
Structure
The large group is split into groups of 4 or 5. This communication and team skills activity includes a storekeeper, a “runner”, a looker, and a builder. Each of the 4 roles is critical to the successful completion of building the structure. The lookers are the only ones that can see the Structure. They pass information along to the runner who communicates to the buyers what should be purchased at the store. The runner also brings the materials to the builder location – in a totally separate area – and shares the verbal building information. At the end of the time frame, each of the new structures are brought to the main function space and examined to determine accuracy.
Raft Build
This exciting and challenging activity has teams of about 8-10 people working together to build a raft out of a limited supply of materials. Each team is provided with the same material which include barrels, ropes and planks. The teams then need to tap into their creative side to construct a sturdy raft. After all the rafts have been completed it is time for them to be tested on the water. Members are chosen from each team to sail on the rafts while the rest of the team cheers them on.
Maze
In this challenging initiative you and your group must find your way through grid maze with a predetermined path while adhering to the rules. The group must first figure out the correct path by going one at a time. As a group you need to remember the correct path and then get everyone through the maze. The Maze will challenge your memory, attention to details and your group’s collaboration skills.

Strategic Thinking and Big Picture Alignment

Strategic thinking and big-picture alignment are essential in the workplace as they ensure individual efforts contribute to the overall goals of the organization. By focusing on long-term objectives, employees can make decisions that drive sustainable growth and innovation.

Kaizen/Keypunch
In this high energy activity, the team is given the ambiguous task of debugging a system by touching a series of numbers in sequence against a stopwatch. After an initial series of rapid attempts, they come together to analyze their current process and work toward a more efficient one. As the activity progresses, the participants realize that in order to improve they must challenge their notions as what a “great time” is, and work toward an initially unforeseen breakthrough.
Shrinking Glaciers
The team is required to carefully stand on walking pads within a circle while they are slowly eliminated one-by-one. Rotational leadership and decision make this activity very interactive with everyone responsible for the ultimate outcome.
Sabotage
The team is given a set of playing cards. An identical set of playing cards is spread out in a unique pattern on the ground at one end of the activity space. Taking individual turns to study the pattern, the team must try to recreate it identically, However, there may be someone on their team who has been assigned the task of disrupting their process. The team must navigate this intense dynamic as they try to solve the challenge.
Islands
The large group is divided into sub-groups representing various levels within an organization. They are charged with the task of all reaching the same destination from various locations. Each group must overcome certain unique process obstacles while assisting each other in achieving the project goal. This complex activity will challenge the team’s mental and creative strength.
Mute Card Lineup
Teams are required to line-up using decks of traditional playing cards in a specific sequence without talking or using any audio communication. Body language, hand gestures and the development of a non-verbal communication system will be necessary for success during this event.
Structure
The large group is split into groups of 4 or 5. This communication and team skills activity includes a storekeeper, a “runner”, a looker, and a builder. Each of the 4 roles is critical to the successful completion of building the structure. The lookers are the only ones that can see the Structure. They pass information along to the runner who communicates to the buyers what should be purchased at the store. The runner also brings the materials to the builder location – in a totally separate area – and shares the verbal building information. At the end of the time frame, each of the new structures are brought to the main function space and examined to determine accuracy.
Raft Build
This exciting and challenging activity has teams of about 8-10 people working together to build a raft out of a limited supply of materials. Each team is provided with the same material which include barrels, ropes and planks. The teams then need to tap into their creative side to construct a sturdy raft. After all the rafts have been completed it is time for them to be tested on the water. Members are chosen from each team to sail on the rafts while the rest of the team cheers them on.

Process Improvement and Efficiency

Process improvement and efficiency are key to optimizing performance. By continually assessing and refining workflows, organizations can reduce waste, save time, and increase productivity. Streamlined processes lead to better resource utilization, higher-quality outcomes, and cost savings. 

Kaizen/Keypunch
In this high energy activity, the team is given the ambiguous task of debugging a system by touching a series of numbers in sequence against a stopwatch. After an initial series of rapid attempts, they come together to analyze their current process and work toward a more efficient one. As the activity progresses, the participants realize that in order to improve they must challenge their notions as what a “great time” is, and work toward an initially unforeseen breakthrough.
Cycle Time/Quantum Puzzle
This activity has sub-teams building a complex, 3-dimensional wooden puzzle and developing a system for repeating the process with speed and accuracy. Once the task is initially accomplished, the entire team is given the very challenging task of positioning as many groups as possible to complete the task in less than 60 seconds.
Pipeline
The team must transport as many marbles as possible to a designated container using only the tools provided. Groups are expected to adhere to tough “quality parameters” and successfully forecast their expected results before each round.
Speed Order
Utilizing a deck of traditional playing cards, sub-teams will work at putting the decks in order as quickly as possible based on the sequencing identified by the facilitator. Several rounds and a surprise curveball mid-activity add to the challenge.
Mass Pass
“Mass Pass” where the large team operates as a single unit to pass items along a rectangle while following specific instructions and guidelines
Extreme Bridge
This activity that involves numerous sub-teams to each build a section of a bridge using only cardboard and duct tape. Two teams build 8-foot ramps while the others build 4- foot span sections using the specs provided. The entire team will then come together and assemble the sections to form a bridge so strong that a manned pull cart or golf cart can be driven across it! The activity culminates with the entire group standing on the bridge for pictures.

Focus and Performance

Focus is essential for achieving high-quality results and meeting deadlines. A strong sense of focus helps minimize distractions, allowing individuals to contribute more effectively to team objectives and drive the organization’s success.

Speed Order
Utilizing a deck of traditional playing cards, sub-teams will work at putting the decks in order as quickly as possible based on the sequencing identified by the facilitator. Several rounds and a surprise curveball mid-activity add to the challenge.
Mass Pass
Mass Pass” where the large team operates as a single unit to pass items along a rectangle while following specific instructions and guidelines
Structure
The large group is split into groups of 4 or 5. This communication and team skills activity includes a storekeeper, a “runner”, a looker, and a builder. Each of the 4 roles is critical to the successful completion of building the structure. The lookers are the only ones that can see the Structure. They pass information along to the runner who communicates to the buyers what should be purchased at the store. The runner also brings the materials to the builder location – in a totally separate area – and shares the verbal building information. At the end of the time frame, each of the new structures are brought to the main function space and examined to determine accuracy.
Raft Build
This exciting and challenging activity has teams of about 8-10 people working together to build a raft out of a limited supply of materials. Each team is provided with the same material which include barrels, ropes and planks. The teams then need to tap into their creative side to construct a sturdy raft. After all the rafts have been completed it is time for them to be tested on the water. Members are chosen from each team to sail on the rafts while the rest of the team cheers them on.
Maze
In this challenging initiative you and your group must find your way through grid maze with a predetermined path while adhering to the rules. The group must first figure out the correct path by going one at a time. As a group you need to remember the correct path and then get everyone through the maze. The Maze will challenge your memory, attention to details and your group’s collaboration skills.

Personal Growth and Development

Personal growth and development boosts confidence and fosters career advancement. Investing in personal development not only benefits individuals but also drives innovation and success for the entire team and company.

Blocked Perspective
This exciting and challenging initiative is about communicating different points of view. The objective is to accurately re-create the block structure depicted in the photographs while following the rules of the activity.
Shrinking Glaciers
The team is required to carefully stand on walking pads within a circle while they are slowly eliminated one-by-one. Rotational leadership and decision make this activity very interactive with everyone responsible for the ultimate outcome.
Group Juggle
A get to know each other activity that will test a group’s memory and multi-tasking skills.
Color Blind
In this challenging communication skills event, each of the participants is given a number of pieces of material that they must describe to each other while blindfolded. The information sharing must be so precise that they will be able to determine what is missing from the larger set.
Sabotage
The team is given a set of playing cards. An identical set of playing cards is spread out in a unique pattern on the ground at one end of the activity space. Taking individual turns to study the pattern, the team must try to recreate it identically, However, there may be someone on their team who has been assigned the task of disrupting their process. The team must navigate this intense dynamic as they try to solve the challenge.

Team Resources and Responsibility

Team resource and responsibility are essential in the workplace as they ensure that tasks are completed efficiently, and goals are met. By sharing resources and clearly defining responsibilities, teams can collaborate more effectively, leverage individual strengths, and avoid duplication of effort. 

Mohawk Walk
The Mohawk Walk is series of foot cables strung between trees or poles, typically in a zig zag pattern. The object is to get the entire group from the first tree to the last without touching the ground, and without the aid of foreign objects (sticks or people standing on the ground). The group must create a strategy, assign roles, work as a team, and assess progress throughout the entire activity.
Blind Escape
A communication-based activity which requires the entire group to follow a predetermined roped path while blindfolded. With the team having to work together throughout, the path takes them along a challenging array of terrain changes and obstacle maneuvers.
Islands
The large group is divided into sub-groups representing various levels within an organization. They are charged with the task of all reaching the same destination from various locations. Each group must overcome certain unique process obstacles while assisting each other in achieving the project goal. This complex activity will challenge the team’s mental and creative strength.

Fun and Engagement

Fun and engagement are important for boosting morale, enhancing creativity, and fostering a positive work environment. When employees feel engaged and enjoy their work, they are more motivated, productive, and connected to their colleagues. 

Speed Order
Utilizing a deck of traditional playing cards, sub-teams will work at putting the decks in order as quickly as possible based on the sequencing identified by the facilitator. Several rounds and a surprise curveball mid-activity add to the challenge.
Blind Escape
A communication-based activity which requires the entire group to follow a predetermined roped path while blindfolded. With the team having to work together throughout, the path takes them along a challenging array of terrain changes and obstacle maneuvers.
Ford Story
A humorous communications activity designed to highlight the pitfalls of imprecise information sharing. 3 to 4 individuals leave the main room and return one at a time to listen to – and then repeat – a given story. All of the observers will work off of a checklist identifying what pieces of critical information was lost in the retelling.
Extreme Bridge
This activity that involves numerous sub-teams to each build a section of a bridge using only cardboard and duct tape. Two teams build 8-foot ramps while the others build 4- foot span sections using the specs provided. The entire team will then come together and assemble the sections to form a bridge so strong that a manned pull cart or golf cart can be driven across it! The activity culminates with the entire group standing on the bridge for pictures.

Ropes Elements

Our various ropes elements feature both high and low challenges that accomplish several different outcomes and initiatives

Giant Swing
The Giant Swing is one of our most popular elements. A participant is connected to the end of 2 steel cables as well as an “elevator” rope. The rest of the team, using the elevator rope, pulls the participant up anywhere from 5-45 feet off the ground, however high the participant challenges themselves to go. At this point the participant must pull a rip cord to release the “elevator” rope and take a giant swing on the steel cables. Thrilling is the only way to describe it!
Catwalk
A horizontally positioned pole suspended between two trees 25 feet off the ground that requires balance and the belay support of participants on the ground to successful cross from one end to the other.
Ship's Passing
A single foot cable with a hand line, which participants need to traverse across a 50ft span while on a relay system.
Giant's Ladder
This element provides high climbing action on an oversized ladder that is made of beams and cables. Teams of 3-4 people have limited time to plan, implement, review and make changes to their climbing strategy. They also rely on their ground safety belay team to protect them as they climb this challenging element.
The Flying Squirrel
Teams and individuals gain greater confidence, better communication skills and a sense of a shared mission on this element. A participant is attached to the end of a rope that runs approximately 40-feet in the air to a pulley and back down to a group of 8-10 participants attached to the other end of the rope. Working in unison, the “pony team” pulls the “flying squirrel” up to a desired height so they can enjoy the thrill of flying.
Multivine
Participants work in a team of 2 to work their way across a cable strung between two trees at 25+ feet with climber using ropes for balance while traversing
The Wall
A 14’ high wall must be safely scaled by the team without the use of any props.
Mohawk Walk
The Mohawk Walk is series of foot cables strung between trees or poles, typically in a zig zag pattern. The object is to get the entire group from the first tree to the last without touching the ground, and without the aid of foreign objects (sticks or people standing on the ground). The group must create a strategy, assign roles, work as a team, and assess progress throughout the entire activity.

Start Planning with Backyard Journeys