Testimonials

don’t just take our word for it…

“If you want a group or team to work effectively and meaningfully together, you want Beyond Recreation to train them.  Creative and interactive, thoughtful and adapting, the Beyond Recreation team has the ability to skillfully educate a variety of audiences. Add in the way they connect personally at the heart, they’re sure to make an impact that will leave a lasting impression.  And plus, they’re just plain fun to be around.”
—CAPTAIN DAN & MAJOR SARAH NELSON, AREA COMMANDERS, THE SALVATION ARMY, KNOXVILLE

"The trainings that Anne creates and facilitates are phenomenal! The activities are always highly interactive and experiential, which leads to greater audience participation and learning outcomes."
—PATRICE THOMAS, DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM SERVICES, HEMOPHILIA FOUNDATION OF MICHIGAN

“Partnering with Anne and the Beyond Rec Team as a research and program development consultant has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my personal and professional development. The passion and craft of educating and supporting others really starts from within - and at Beyond Recreation that means a team that is as enthusiastic and creative as they are skilled and knowledgeable. As a researcher by training, I am constantly looking for opportunities to bring research to life and support effective practice. Beyond Recreation shares this desire, and ensures that all their programming is supported by the latest research on best practices while keeping professional expertise at its core. Anne's energy is contagious and I've always left a project feeling more inspired to make positive change.”

—DAYANA KUPISK, PHD, PROGRAM ASSOCIATE, NATIONAL COUNCIL ON CRIME AND DELIQUENCY 

“Michael Jay Garner has mastered the true, authentic essence of the classic art form of clowning. He has the ability to tell stories with clear physical comedy and perfect timing, and leaves the audience wanting more."
—RON KELLUM, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

“Michael has an incredible ability to connect with others and has a knack for meeting people where they are. He has an exceptionally high level of emotional and interpersonal intelligence, and is very purposeful about engaging with others in ways that put them at ease.

“It’s clear that Michael values fairness, equality, integrity, and a sense of community. He treats everyone in a respectful manner, regardless of age, background, or social status.

“Michael has outstanding communication skills and is exceptionally responsive in his relationships with others. He has one of the most infectious spirits I have ever known.” 
—S. BLAKE LANIER, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., CIRQUE DU MONDE

“Michael is not only an extremely funny clown, but someone who understands the role this heroic character plays within our collective unconscious. He has the ability to transform our shared pain into laughter.”

—DAVID SHINER, CLOWN, CREATOR OF KOOZA

“For several years I have had the pleasure of sharing the stage with Michael, performing as featured clowns on an international tour with Cirque du Soleil. His energy and creative genius are truly inspiring. Both on and off stage, Michael is generous and absolutely delightful...a bona fide pro!

(...and, he can balance almost anything on his nose. Just dare him!)”

—GORDON WHITE, CLOWN, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL