THE VALLEY'S INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND
OUR VISION - Putting Downs First had envisioned a place that would allow all children to play together. A place where differences didn't matter and friendships could develop between kids who otherwise would never have the opportunity to meet. We had a dream for parents to enjoy watching their kids, in an environment that welcomed them to be every day kids, just like everyone else.
GROUNDWORK
In September of 2008 we met with Jonathan Wright of Playworld Midstates to discuss our ideas and options for an ADA All Accessible playground. He told us the process would take 2 1/2 to 3 years. Jonathan began the design work while we searched for a building site and started raising money. In March of 2009 he presented his blueprints to the PDF board. Bob Coupland from The Warren Tribune Chronicle was present at the meeting and featured a story on our plans.
AT THE MAYOR'S OFFICE
Kim McGann, whose daughter Mindy has Cerebral Palsy, approached Mayor Micheal O'Brien about placing a playground in Warren that Mindy would be able to use. He solicited the aid of Main Street Warren who agreed this was a community need that could no longer go unmet. MSW's Chuck Joseph and James Delissandro also started working with Jonathan Wright on plans for The Valley's Inclusive Playground at Perkins Park. When Mayor O'Brien read in The Tribune about our plans for an identical project, he immediately invited us to combine our efforts and join their team. After a grueling summer of meetings, fund raising, planning, and event coordinating, a wonderful band of community volunteers came together with city employees and Playworld Midstates directors on Community Build Days to construct The V.I.P. in record time.
A DREAM COME TRUE
We can't begin to express our joy, excitement, and gratitude as we stand in Perkins Park and look out over The Valley's Inclusive Playground. A mere 5 months after receiving our blueprints, The V.I.P. stands before us, ready to open up so many incredible opportunities to all the children of our Valley. We are so proud to be part of the community that so lovingly made it possible. We thank The Freda Family Foundation for the contribution that made our dream come alive. We thank Mayor O'Brien, Main Street Warren, The Warren Moose Lodge, Warren Area Board of Realtors, all the organizations and individuals that came out on Community Build Days, and the many area businesses and restaurants who donated funds, services, and food for our workers. Please know what an incredible difference you have made in the lives of the children of our Valley! Be proud to be a part of the movement towards acceptance and inclusion of those with Special Needs in our community.
LINKS:
It's Time To Play: Inclusive Playground Opens at Perkins Park - 9/20/09
Warren Named 'Healthy Community' - 9/22/09
A Place Where All Kids Can Play - 8/29/09
Community Builds Handicapped Playground In Warren - 8/29/09