Ennismore Optimist Club
News & Events
Together We Can Build The First Inclusive Playground In Our Township!
The Ennismore Optimist Club values all children and their human right to barrier free play. Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood that fosters physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth; something all children should have equal access to. Join us in our mission to build an inclusive play space at the Ennismore Waterfront Park, to champion the power of play and bring out the best in youth, our communities, and ourselves.
We are looking to raise approximately $250,000 to construct the first inclusive playground in Selwyn Township at the Ennismore Waterfront Park (1053 Ennis Road, Ennismore). Our design incorporates rubber surfacing for optimal accessibility, along with various inclusive play elements to engage those with and without exceptionalities. These funds would go towards preparation of the site, and the cost of pouring the rubber surface and all of the play components.
Through thoughtful planning and intentional design choices, we aim to build more than just your typical playground at the Ennismore Waterfront Park - providing play opportunities that promote multi-generational connections, ease of use for mobility aids, and play experiences for diverse abilities. One of the elements that we are extremely excited about, is the accessible merry-go-round (orbit), which sits seamlessly at ground level to offer a spinning experience without having to leave your mobility device. The inclusive playground will be built adjacent to the current structure to offer a larger play area, along with a newly constructed accessible pathway to the space. The current play structure will remain in place.
This project is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a safe and stimulating environment to explore, play, and grow, regardless of their ability. With a commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and especially joy, we are dedicated to creating a space where children can be their true selves and unleash their full potential through the magic of play.
This project addresses the significant barrier that wood chip playground surfacing has on participation for those with mobility devices. Rubber surfacing is an excellent choice when creating an inclusive space as it provides a safe and soft surface for which people of all abilities can play.
An inclusive playground goes beyond the minimum accessibility standards, by: offering rubber surfacing and play elements that allow all children the opportunity to participate; supporting equal access to diverse play experiences; addressing a broad range of barriers for those with various needs. At present, the nearest playground to Ennismore Ontario to follow these criteria is 64 kilometres away.
Join the Ennismore Optimist Club, in partnership with Julie Grant (Accessible Playgrounds Ontario), and numerous dedicated volunteers, as we embark on this journey to create a space where all children can thrive through inclusive play.
To learn more about the project and how to donate (charitable tax receipt options available), please visit https://www.ennismoreinclusiveplayground.com/