Submitted
COLBY — In 2023, a group of concerned parents started searching for a way to bring an accessible park to the community of Colby.
They strongly believed that playgrounds are an essential part of a child's development. Not only do they get to play, but opportunities arrive to teach problem solving, communication, adventure and friendships.
But what they didn't know (until they experienced it first-hand) was just how difficult traditional parks are for those in the disability community. They have not been built to allow all people with varying abilities to play, they are hard to maneuver and most times very unsafe, which causes many children to be sidelined or even in some cases injured.
During their search for a means to bring this type of park to life, they were presented with a partnership to join the local Kiwanis Club wanting to renovate an existing park, and the collaboration began to not only build a new accessible playground but honor a local man's legacy to the club while doing so.
In June of 2024, the partnership between the parents, Kiwanis Club of Thomas County/Colby, Colby Rotary Club, the City of Colby and the Thomas County Community Foundation kicked off its fundraising efforts to make this park a reality, with a goal of roughly $500,000.
Guided by Play4All, they have devoted their time to spreading awareness through parade participation, presenting to local community organizations, taking over their local radio station and social media campaigns, as well as hosting pancake feeds, food truck fundraisers, T-shirt sales and a grassroots Push for the Park Community Campaign, raising funds directly from the local business community.
Their efforts have been wildly successful and the project funding is near completion.
Once funded the construction with Cunningham Recreation will begin this spring.
The playground will feature a zip line, swings, inclusive whirl and more, all safely built with accessible surfacing for people of all abilities to enjoy.
They will be hosting a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, March 21 at 10:00 a.m. at Villa High Park and all are invited to attend.
You can learn more about this effort or how to donate to the cause by following their “Kenton Krehbiel Inclusive Playground at Villa High” Facebook Page.