New Sign to Kick-Start Fundraising for Inclusive Playground at Zorinsky Lake
Fitness enthusiasts and families strolling around a beautiful lake view peninsula at Zorinsky Lake may notice a new sign next to an old, small, and seldom-used playground. The playground is surrounded by popular areas for fundraising walks and family gatherings. Imagine Inclusion, an Omaha 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is fundraising with the hope that this spot is soon transformed into a space where families of all abilities can gather and play together.
Imagine Inclusion’s (www.imagineinclusion.org) Zorinsky Lake project began with conversations between Omaha Parks and Recreation and Crouch Recreation. All three organizations are collaborating on this unique public-private partnership. Omaha Parks and Recreation approved the site and made a financial pledge equal to the replacement of the current playground. They will also maintain the playground after it is built. With extensive input from Imagine Inclusion, Crouch Recreation designed the state of the art inclusive playground. The total cost of the project is $850,000 with $100,000 being raised by Imagine Inclusion. The group is responsible for raising the additional funds for the playground through grants, business sponsorships and private donations.
The plans for Imagine Inclusion’s inclusive playground include features meant for those with physical impairments, visual impairments, and sensory needs. Some of the features include flat rubber surfacing, two ramps, a roller slide, and a ground-level inclusive whirl. Donation and sponsorship information is available at www.imagineinclusion.org.