St. Mary's School in Okotoks is getting a new inclusive playground next summer.
The Friends of St. Mary's School Okotoks Association have fundraised for nearly five years to raise money to install an inclusive playground at St. Mary's School that will help to support those who have mobility challenges and promote play for all.
"This new playground is a testament to the power of community and our commitment to inclusivity. We are thrilled to create a space where all children can play together and feel a true sense of belonging," explained St. Mary’s School Principal Shari Gustafson in a media release. "This project is deeply rooted in the Catholic Social Teaching of Human Dignity, reminding us that every child is a cherished individual, deserving of respect, love, and the opportunity to thrive in an environment that honours their inherent worth."
While there are currently two playgrounds at St. Mary's School, neither is set up to be accessible for people with limited mobility.
Currently, the playgrounds are not wide enough for wheelchairs and walkers, and the grounds are made out of pea gravel and wood chips, which makes it difficult for those with walkers and wheelchairs to access the playground.
The new playground will have a rubber surface for better access, wide ramps, multiple access points for those with mobility issues, accessible slides, and more.
"The playground will also be easily accessible to the general public, as it will be adjacent to the school parking lot," added Friends of St. Mary’s School Okotoks Association Chair Krista Conrad in the media release.
They have been fundraising since 2020 under the umbrella of St. Mary's School Parent Council, and have raised over $115,000.
Now they are asking for more funding from Okotoks community groups, businesses, and residents so they can reach their goal of $250,000 raised.
Conrad added that this is a grassroots endeavour, and it has had parents at the helm of the fundraiser, and every penny they have raised has been through fundraising.
They have also applied for government grants and received a letter of support from the Town of Okotoks, emphasizing how important an inclusive and accessible playground in the Cimarron neighbourhood is for residents.
The Friends of St. Mary's is now looking for sponsorships to help them reach their fundraising goal.
They have several different Sponsorship Packages available, ranging from $2,500 and upwards.
On top of that, they are offering a Buy a Tile campaign, where they will recognize those who have donated up to $2,500 with a fixed sign with a tile that can include the name of the family that donated the money.
The tiles are available when donations of $100 or more are made.
"The Friends of St. Mary’s School Okotoks Association is proud to build this playground for the benefit of its students and the broader Okotoks community, and is grateful for any support provided by the community," the statement read.
To learn more about the fundraising, check out their Facebook page.
Donations can be made at St. Mary's School.