Since its establishment in 1941, the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer has been a driving force for positive change in the community. With a history rich in community service, the club, comprising nearly 50 dedicated members, has consistently undertaken projects that enhance the quality of life for Lapeer's residents. Now, with their sights set on their most ambitious endeavor yet, the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer is rallying the community to support the creation of the Kiwanis Inclusive Playground at Rowden Park.
A Legacy Project for All Ages and Abilities
The Kiwanis Inclusive Playground is not just a playground; it is a visionary project that transcends conventional boundaries. Positioned at Rowden Park, easily accessible off M-24 directly across from McLaren Lapeer Region, this playground represents a groundbreaking initiative in Lapeer County and the surrounding areas. The club's vision for this project has been in the making for over three years, involving meticulous planning in collaboration with the City of Lapeer and various organizations to ensure its success.
With the goal of creating a destination that goes beyond a typical playground, the Kiwanis Inclusive Playground aims to cater to individuals of all ages, regardless of mobility, sensory issues, or disabilities. Notably, the playground is designed to meet the unique needs of the high demographic of individuals with disabilities in Lapeer and surrounding areas, including many children on the autism spectrum.
Inclusive Design: Beyond Accessibility
The Kiwanis Club of Lapeer is setting a new standard for inclusivity with the design of the playground. Going beyond mere accessibility, the project takes into consideration individuals with a spectrum of disabilities, ensuring that all senses are engaged during play. This thoughtful approach acknowledges the diverse needs of the community, creating a space that truly fosters inclusivity.
Community Involvement and Partnerships
The community has been an integral part of the project from its inception. With an emphasis on ensuring that the finished playground aligns with community desires and needs, the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer has actively involved residents in the decision-making process. This collaborative effort is not just about constructing a playground; it's about creating a communal space that reflects the collective aspirations of the people it serves.
However, a project of this magnitude requires substantial support, both in terms of funding and community partnerships. With an estimated cost exceeding $1.4 million, the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer is reaching out to individuals, businesses, and organizations for contributions. The club is exploring grants, seeking partnerships with commercial playground companies, and actively working to raise funds to break ground.
Community-Driven Vision
The Kiwanis Club's vision of an all-inclusive playground has struck a chord within the community, inspiring a shared commitment to create a space where every child, regardless of ability, can thrive. As momentum builds, the transformative impact of this project becomes increasingly evident.
Leading Donors Shaping the Path
The success of the fundraising campaign is indebted to the generosity of key donors who have emerged as champions of inclusivity:
ChoiceOne Bank: $55,000
Lapeer County Community Foundation: $50,000
LCCF Youth Advisory Committee: $15,300
Four County Community Foundation: $12,500
Security Credit Union: $10,000
These leading contributors play a crucial role and collective commitment in propelling the Kiwanis Inclusive Playground project forward.
City of Lapeer: A Committed Ongoing Partner
Essential to the project's success is the City of Lapeer, which has generously provided the space for the playground. This support extends beyond mere provision; upon completion, the City will adopt the playground as its own. This commitment includes ongoing inspections and maintenance, ensuring the playground remains a safe, vibrant, and enduring asset for generations to come.
Fundraising Calendar
The Kiwanis Club of Lapeer is pleased to announce its upcoming annual fundraising
events, which play a vital role in supporting local organizations and causes dedicated to
children in the Lapeer community. Mark your calendars for these important dates:
Adbook Campaign - February 2024
Kiwanis Kapers - April 18, 19 & 20, 2024
Golf Scramble - July 15, 2024
Rubber Duck Dash - September 14, 2024
Fantasy Forest - October 12, 2024
The success of these events relies on the collective efforts of our Kiwanis family of volunteers, the generosity of local businesses providing sponsorships, and the enthusiastic participation of community members. By joining us at these fundraisers, you become an integral part of our mission to give back to the local community, ensuring that 100% of net proceeds go towards supporting organizations dedicated to children's causes in Lapeer including the Inclusive Playground.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who has been a part of our journey so far and invite you to join us in the upcoming events. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children in the Lapeer community.
Serving Every Child in Lapeer County
The Kiwanis Inclusive Playground transcends traditional boundaries, embodying the shared values of unity and resilience. It is a symbol of the community's collective commitment to creating an environment where every child, regardless of ability, can not only play, but thrive.
Kiwanis' mission is to serve the children of the community, and the Inclusive Playground is a testament to their unwavering commitment. Lapeer County, with approximately 89,000 residents, has a significant percentage of the population facing various challenges. The playground addresses the needs of 13%-17% of the population considered "special needs" by the CDC. This translates to 2,000-2,500 children in the area dealing with challenges that may limit their access to a typical playground safely.
The Kiwanis Inclusive Playground is not just about equity and inclusivity; it's about creating a haven for children and adults regardless of ability. With no such park currently available in the area, this project will bring the community together, encourage healthy outdoor activities, and eliminate obstacles for a growing portion of underserved children.
Building a Legacy of Inclusion
As the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer embarks on this monumental project, they envision more than just a playground; they see a legacy of positive impact in the community. Beyond immediate benefits, such as enhanced quality of life, improved social well-being, and a sense of belonging, the Inclusive Playground is positioned to be a lasting legacy for the good of Lapeer.
To contribute or learn more about the Kiwanis Inclusive Playground project, check out our website KiwanisLapeer.org/playground or reach out to the Kiwanis Club of Lapeer at lapeerkiwanis@gmail.com or call 810-441-7302. Donations and sponsorships can be sent to: Kiwanis Club of Lapeer Foundation, P.O. Box 501, Lapeer, MI 48446