Last week’s ribbon-cutting ceremony made a nonprofit’s dream for a completely accessible playground a reality. Disability Connection, located in Southern Mississippi, wanted to bring a playground to their community that was not only handicap accessible, but engaging for people with disabilities.
The Amenities
The community playground includes specialized equipment such as a modified slide called a roller table, a single post swing with a harness, a safer alternative to a merry-go-round called the OmniSpin Spinner and fun panels designed for those with autism.
The equipment is also ideal for very small children who are not normally able to play safely on standard playground equipment.
Adults in wheelchairs or with limited mobility are also able to use the playground with their children thanks to the accessible design. The park also has a lighted walking track, benches, accessible bathroom facilities and ample parking.
Beyond the Playground
The mission of Disability Connection is to create connected communities and engage people with disabilities with the intention they will participate in their communities. The organization saw a need for a fully accessible playground for families in the Harrison County community last year and began raising funds.
Now that the playground is open, the organization is planning to bring in additional equipment as additional funds become available.
Have you been to a fully accessible playground or park in your area? Let us know about your experience there in the comments!