On April 25th, 2026, the City of Round Rock debuted a new custom playground for kids of all ages and abilities. Named for Joanne Land, a public servant in the 70s who helped guide the town as it increased from less than 3,000 residents to over 60,000, the playground celebrates the city’s ever-growing community by expanding the opportunities for everyone to explore and have fun together.
Miracle representative webuildfun designed the new play space as well as its predecessor. The original playground had been one of the main attractions of the park, with anywhere from 100 to over 1,000 kids playing on any given day. Due to the heavy use and popularity, the new playground now extends over 10,000 sq. ft. with a plethora of play activities for everyone to enjoy.
“Knowing that we had previously had a Miracle playground that just received overwhelming support from the community, we knew that if we replaced it and we moved it, we had to do it right,” said Rick Atkins, Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Round Rock. “And that’s what we did with Miracle.”
Exploring Towering Play Structures and Soaring Skyways
As the first community to install Miracle’s Extreme Generation play structure, the City of Round Rock experienced a great draw to their original playground. Now, in the updated layout, Extreme Generation is custom-combined with Mega Tower® to transform it into a truly can’t-miss play space. The 6 towers reach heights up to 40 ft, giving kids a bird’s eye view of their surroundings while providing a thrilling sense of perceived risk as they navigate through 116 ft. of skyway. Inclusive routes are located throughout the design, ensuring that kids of all abilities can explore freely alongside their friends.
“They had to deliver something that was equally extreme and even extreme to a greater definition than what they had previously had here at Old Settlers Park,” said Scott Hammons, Industrial Designer for Miracle Recreation. “[We created] something of extreme proportions, with some of the design inspiration coming from historical aspects of Round Rock, Texas—such as, of course, the iconic Round Rock that emerges from the Brushy Creek Park.”
The structure doesn’t stop at testing kids’ ability to climb—activity inserts and play panels are located throughout to engage the mind and senses as well. Kids can also enjoy a sensory rush as they race down one of the 9 slides featured throughout the design or while riding the inclusive Alta Glide with friends. Those wanting to remain at ground level can enjoy a variety of freestanding equipment, such as the twisting DNA Climber.
“It is challenging and that’s what we wanted,” said Atkins. “We’ve got multiple activities that really work on developmental skills with the kids…this playground gives you a little bit of everything and we’re excited for that.”
Collaborating with Miracle’s Custom Design Studio
Joanne Land Playground features a number of play elements that were carefully designed in collaboration with Miracle’s Custom Design Studio, ensuring that Round Rock can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience across every inch of the sizeable play space.
“This is a completely unique playground that you won’t see anywhere,” said Vince Allen, co-owner of webuildfun. “You can see where we borrowed certain pieces, but what I love about working with the custom team is we told them what we wanted, and they nailed it. I mean, they’re super easy to work with.”
Some of the custom elements were designed increase the inclusivity of the structure. For instance, strategic layout ensures that kids of any ability level are able to reach the top of the play structure and enjoy the slides and play activities along the way. A custom Aquarius™ 6M Webscape also offers a ground-level climbing event while visually connecting to the main play structure. This not only adds to the structure’s overall aesthetic, but inspires opportunities for social play.
Miracle’s Custom Design Studio and webuildfun worked alongside the City of Round Rock to ensure that the community’s dream vision was brought to life.
“We got to sit down, and we got to just spew ideas,” said Atkins. “A lot of different things came out, and in the wash, this is what this came out to be. And we’re so proud of what it looks like. It’s different from the first one. It’s unique. And it’s a quality installation that is definitely suited for Round Rock.”
Establishing a Legacy
Local excitement and support for the new play space was palpable at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. In attendance was Joanne Land herself, who shared her connection to the community and hopes for the project.
“Never ever have I come across a town or a city that has as much love and quality leadership as we have,” said Land. “We are all very fortunate to live here. And you kids are the future, so grow up to be big, strong leaders. And you’re gonna do that by building muscles on this playground.”
Joanne Land Playground is anticipated to welcome over 4.5 million visitors annually and provide unforgettable, high-quality play experiences for years to come.
“This isn’t just about today,” said Allen. “It’s about the generations of families who will come here, the memories that will be made here, and the legacy that will continue to grow along our city.”
Bring the Height of Play to Your Community
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Inspiring the Next Generation of Thinkers, Innovators, and Designers
Together with The Rube Goldberg® Institute for Innovation & Creativity, Miracle Recreation® hosted The Miracle Playground Challenge—a playground design contest that invited participants of all ages to design their very own playground or play equipment inspired by Rube Goldberg machines.
The Rube Goldberg Institute has been hosting contests for over 40 years, including a world championship event that invites 50,000 students from across the globe to design and build Rube Goldberg machines. From that flagship event—which began with just two fraternities at Purdue University—their contests have expanded to areas such as Minecraft, Unreal Engine, and now, the playground.
“The goal of the contest was to give the entire group of candidates who submitted the opportunity to flex their creative muscle in a super fun, interesting, and relevant way,” said Jennifer George, Creative Director of The Rube Goldberg Institute and granddaughter of Rube Goldberg. “We want to get them actively thinking creatively about not just the world around them, but their place in it.”
The Miracle Playground Challenge Contest Rules, Submissions, and Winners
The Miracle Playground Challenge was divided into two divisions with a junior category (ages 17 and under) and a senior category (ages 18 and up). It saw over 800 submissions from 18 states and 5 countries—including Ukraine, Saudia Arabia, and Germany! People of all ages and skill levels participated, with some being as young as 5 years old and others submitting as well-seasoned professionals.
After narrowing down to the top 10, two entries stood out: Anika Jha, who won the Junior Division, and Brian Moses, who won the Senior Division along with his son Gryffin and wife Lydia.
“Knowing that we have two winners who are younger and seeing the enthusiasm that they were able to put into their creations, it’s very nice to think that there’s that level of thought and knowledge in the younger generation,” said Matthew Nazzaro, Product Manager for Miracle Recreation. “It’ll be great to see what they’re able to turn out in the future.”
Collaborating on Playground Equipment Design
The winners spent a day designing play equipment alongside Miracle Recreation’s new product design team in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. There, they learned step-by-step how a new piece of playground equipment comes to life and participated in the process to create their very own.
“To come to a place like Miracle Recreation and get the tour, see how things are made, meet with the designers, have an exciting experience of a brainstorm session with the creative team…that is an incredible opportunity,” said George.
The day was also a great opportunity for Miracle Recreation’s design team, who helped the winners develop their designs to make them as rewarding and fun as possible for users.
“It’s really fun to have some outsiders coming in, seeing the process, asking questions, and really experiencing it with us,” said Lauren Menezes, Industrial Product Designer for Miracle Recreation. “Just hearing them talk about their ideas and their playground thoughts has really inspired us.”
Once finalized, the resulting play equipment from the collaboration will be created and installed for a worthy community.
NESN Connects brings together New England partners to give local kids the transformative power of play
WORCESTER, Mass., Oct. 29, 2025 — Make An Impact Foundation, the non-profit dedicated to promoting the education and well-being of underserved children nationwide, and NESN, New England’s premier sports network, today announced the opening of a new playground at Harrington Field in Worcester, Massachusetts (720 Franklin St.). A public grand opening celebration is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. today.
“NESN rallied a generous community of sponsors to make this playground a reality for Worcester families,” said Dale Gillmore, founder and board chairman of Make An Impact Foundation. “Our mission is to create places where all young people can play freely without barriers, and this play space at Harrington Field will give kids a safe place to be active and connect with each other.”
The new playground – dreamed up and designed entirely by local kids and brought to life through the support of numerous community partners – aims to give children a place to play, explore, and experience the transformative power of play. The space features play equipment from Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century. Play activities include slides and climbers, including a Cyclo Cone Open Climber, which encourages strength, balance, and social play. The area also features an inclusive swing seat to support riders who benefit from additional positioning and security, and tot swings and belt swings for a full age range of users.
“At NESN, we see the impact that play, creativity, and connection have on the athletes we cover every day,” said Matt Volk, COO of NESN. “It’s inspiring for kids to see their community come together to support them. They are the next generation of leaders, athletes, creators, and dreamers, and we want them to imagine, get outside, connect with others, and play freely. We’re proud to help build this playground for the City of Worcester and are grateful to all of our partners who made it possible.”
Make An Impact Foundation partners with organizations to create places where all young people have equal opportunity and ability to play freely without barriers. The play space at Harrington Field is made possible through donations from partners, including: eClinicalWorks, Red Sox Foundation, Boston Bruins Foundation, WooSox Foundation, Spectrum, Game Creek Video, Clark University, Kevin and Kate Mercadante and Family, The City of Worcester, Jack Barry Little League, and Miracle Recreation.
“Our mission is to expand access to high-quality outdoor spaces for every neighborhood,” said Robert C. Antonelli, Jr., commissioner of parks, recreation, and cemetery for The City of Worcester Parks & Recreation Department. “This new playground at Harrington Field gives Jack Barry Little League families and local residents a destination for unstructured and thrilling play.”
About Make An Impact Foundation:
The mission of Make An Impact Foundation (MAIF), a 501(c)(3), is to promote the education and well-being of children. MAIF identifies children in severe need (homeless, poverty, etc.) as well as those with learning needs, emotional needs, disabilities, or disease and creates opportunities to produce a change in their lives. Our vision at MAIF is to meet the needs of children by identifying worthwhile projects, empowering project champions, and finding donor partners to help meet each need. For more information about MAIF visit our website, www.MakeAnImpactNow.org.
About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle Recreation, pioneers the world of thrilling commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children take perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.
About NESN
NESN is consistently one of the top-rated regional sports networks in the country with award-winning Red Sox and Bruins coverage, and recently named RSN of the Year by Cynopsis. NESN and NESN+ are delivered throughout the six-state New England region and are available anytime, anywhere, on any device on the NESN 360 app via direct subscription or TV authentication. The network is also distributed nationally as NESN National. NESN’s free ad-supported streaming (FAST) channel, NESN NATION, offers 30+ hours of weekly live and original programming, including exclusive sports content, interviews, and behind-the-scenes features, available on Samsung TV Plus, Prime Video, Roku, LG, Twitch, Plex, and TCLtv+. NESN.com is one of the country’s most visited sports websites with dedicated digital video production and always-on news coverage. NESN’s social responsibility program, NESN Connects, is proud to support and connect its employees with charitable organizations in the Greater Boston community. NESN also manages SportsNet Pittsburgh, home of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Pittsburgh Pirates for all regionally televised games in and around Pittsburgh, as well as other local sports content. NESN is owned by Fenway Sports Group (owners of the Boston Red Sox) and Delaware North (owners of the Boston Bruins).
Media contact:
Jennifer Leckstrom
RoseComm for Miracle Recreation [email protected]
215-681-0770
Winning entrants from Arcadia, California, and Westport, Massachusetts, will help bring new playground to life in yet-to-be chosen community
NEW YORK and MONETT, Mo., April 16, 2025 — The Rube Goldberg Institute, a family-run nonprofit that uses the artist’s invention cartoons as a springboard for its work in STEM and STEAM education, and Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, today announced the two winning entries for the Rube Goldberg Playground Contest: “Simple Worlds,” created by high school freshman Anika Jha of Arcadia, California; and “The Idea Generator,” designed by 8-year-old Gryffin Moses and his father, Brian, of Westport, Massachusetts.
Chosen from hundreds of contest entrants, Jha and the Moses family will travel in June to the Miracle Design Studio, and work with professional playground designers to brainstorm a buildable outdoor play space inspired by their creativity. For the second phase of the contest, a worthy community will win the Rube Goldberg Playground, selected by a juried committee of industry professionals. Finally, phase three will see the construction of this one-of-a-kind playground.
Jha and the Moses family will each receive a $500 cash prize and trophy, in addition to social media coverage on the Rube Goldberg and Miracle Recreation sites and acknowledgement on the physical structure once complete.
“The creativity and ingenuity of these designs prove that play and learning go hand in hand,” said Jennifer George, Rube’s granddaughter and Creative Director at the Rube Goldberg Institute. “Both winning entries stay true to my grandfather’s legacy of chain-reaction silliness and deliver marvelous ideas where kids become part of the simple machines they study in school. Our groundbreaking Rube Goldberg Playground will usher in a new way to teach STEM through outdoor, interactive play.”
Meet the winners A freshman at Arcadia High School and self-described learning enthusiast and philomath, Jha created “Simple Worlds” as a playground of discovery, transporting users to different parts of the universe, including but not limited to the deep ocean and space.
Her junior division winning design features:
A “Fisics” Fun zone, where kids can swing, manipulate prisms to create rainbows, and create water tornadoes
Beyond the Sky, a section with a bouncy, pulley system see-saw, a rock-climbing challenge and thermochromic sun display that changes color when touched
Underwater Adventure, a play area with glow-in-the-dark elements, a sand pit, sounds, and opportunities to slide, climb, hang, and dance
The Moses family’s “Idea Generator,” which won the senior division, is a collaborative play structure centered around six classic simple machines – lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle. It reflects the inventiveness and humor of Rube Goldberg’s work while encouraging problem-solving, movement and teamwork.
The concept was built on the idea that “collaboration is a celebration,” allowing kids to play individually or team up to generate a chain reaction. When all six machines are activated at once, a giant “BIG IDEA” lightbulb at the top of the structure illuminates, rewarding cooperative play. Brian Moses thought it would be funny to incorporate the classic image of a light bulb turning on overhead to illustrate having a good idea, like in old cartoons.
“We were blown away by the creativity offered in the hundreds of contest submissions we received,” said Mike Sutton, vice president of global sales for Miracle Recreation. “The winning designs challenge how we think about play and we can’t wait to work with Anika, Gryffin, and Brian to bring their creations to life.”
The Rube Goldberg Institute, a “museum without walls” encouraging global interest in arts and sciences, and Miracle Recreation, based in Monett, Missouri, began their partnership in 2021 with the Rube Goldberg Miracle Machines: three oversized, double-sided playground panels that allow children to create constant motion using mechanisms such as levers, gears, pegs, balls, and spinners. The equipment is available to purchase for community and school playgrounds everywhere.
“In reviewing Playground Contest submissions, some made me laugh, others made me smile, and they all helped deepen my appreciation for our successful partnership with the Rube Goldberg Institute,” said Sutton. “We thank everyone who offered ideas and are excited to welcome the winners to Miracle Recreation’s design studio this summer. We cannot wait to eventually build a complete Rube Goldberg playground in one lucky community.”
About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle Recreation, pioneers the world of thrilling, commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children take perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.
About The Rube Goldberg® Institute for Innovation & Creativity
The Rube Goldberg Institute stands as a “museum without walls,” offering experiences designed for the 21st Century that span the virtual and physical and introduce people to the rewards of engaging in the arts and sciences. Rube’s legacy reminds us of the crucial importance of informed observation, creative thinking, artistic response, problem-solving, curiosity, and inventiveness. The Institute was founded by Rube’s son, George W. George, in 1988, and today is run by Rube’s granddaughter, Jennifer George. The Institute proudly works with educators, organizations, and commercial brands to present the world and work of Rube Goldberg around the world. For more information, go to RubeGoldberg.org.
Media contact:
Jennifer Leckstrom
RoseComm for Miracle Recreation [email protected]
215-681-0770
Playground unites music and hands-on play for the local community
CORNELIUS, N.C., March 13, 2024 — Make An Impact Foundation, the non-profit dedicated to promoting the education and well-being of underserved children nationwide, today announced the opening of a new playground at the Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius, North Carolina. Now open, the interactive play space was designed to inspire creativity and engagement through music and movement.
The play space features products from Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century. Installed pieces feature Concerto musical elements, including Tall Chimes, Small Cabasa, Large Cabasa, and Concerto Vibes, allowing visitors of all abilities and ages to create music while enjoying the Cain Center’s vibrant outdoor space.
“Our mission is to promote the education and well-being of children, and this play space aligns with our mission, said Dale Gillmore, founder and board chairman of Make An Impact Foundation. “As a board member at The Cain Center For The Arts, I am excited and grateful that our community worked together on this project.”
Make An Impact Foundation partners with organizations to create places where all kids have equal opportunity and ability to play freely without barriers. To make this music-themed play space a reality, it worked with Quest, North Mecklenburg Rotary Club, Peninsula Club Foundation, Cain Center for the Arts, Town of Cornelius Parks and Recreation, and Miracle Recreation. The Rotary Club played a key role in fundraising, contributing nearly half of the total project cost.
Designed as a natural amphitheater, the outdoor space provides an ideal setting for the new musical play equipment. The installation offers a unique way for visitors to interact with sound and movement in an open-air environment.
“The addition of the musical sculpture playground to Cain Park has enhanced the opportunity for community members to experience the joys and wonder of the arts at Cain Center,” said Justin Dionne, executive director of the Cain Center For The Arts. “It has been wonderful to see people of all ages try new things and enjoy art while playing.”
Located in the heart of Old Town Cornelius, Cain Center for the Arts first raised its curtain in 2023 to offer vibrant performing arts events, thought-provoking visual art exhibits, diverse arts education, and lively social experiences to the Lake Norman community and beyond.
About Make An Impact Foundation:
The mission of Make An Impact Foundation (MAIF), a 501(c)(3), is to promote the education and well-being of children. MAIF identifies children in severe need (homeless, poverty, etc.) as well as those with learning needs, emotional needs, disabilities, or disease and creates opportunities to produce a change in their lives. Our vision at MAIF is to meet the needs of children by identifying worthwhile projects, empowering project champions, and finding donor partners to help meet each need. For more information about MAIF visit our website, www.MakeAnImpactNow.org.
About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle, pioneers the world of thrilling commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children take perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.
Media contact:
Jennifer Leckstrom
RoseComm for Miracle Recreation [email protected]
215-681-0770
The new playground at Shelter Cove Community Park is planned for a fall 2025 installation
MONETT, Mo., Dec. 20, 2024 — Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, and Best Buddies® International, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), today announced approval of the first Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation inclusive playground project, in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Currently in the design phase, the playground at Shelter Cove Community Park is planned for installation in fall 2025.
“We are thrilled Hilton Head has committed to become the first of many North American locales to install a Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation inclusive playground, and that its leaders recognize the value such an investment can bring to its community,” said Anthony Kennedy Shriver, founder of Best Buddies International. “With many more projects in the planning phase, we hope our collaboration with Miracle will raise awareness of Best Buddies International’s mission, and more importantly, greatly benefit families that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
The Best Buddies + Miracle program, which aims to provide a new standard of best-in-class, inclusive and accessible playground equipment for all abilities, was launched in June 2024. In August, the Town Council of Hilton Head unanimously approved the Shelter Cove Community Park project, marking what will be Hilton Head’s first fully inclusive playground.
“Fostering an inclusive, multidimensional community depends on our ability to connect and collaborate with each other in physical, social and cultural environments,” said Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry. “This program helps us achieve that goal while also promoting safe and healthy neighborhood projects that benefit our citizens and visitors.”
Providing exceptional quality of life offerings in arts, culture, parks and recreation with best-in-class facilities is one of 10 ongoing community goals that inform the town’s pursuit and implementation of projects such as this one.
“Our strategic action plan continues to provide a great blueprint to help Town Council make the best decisions about where, when, and how to use our town resources to meet the needs of our community,” said Marc Orlando, Hilton Head Island town manager. “To be the first Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation inclusive playground in the country just adds to our excitement about moving this community resource forward.”
Design work, led by Miracle’s local rep agency, Churchich Recreation & Design, will be completed in 2025.
“We are extremely proud to partner with Hilton Head and Best Buddies on this exciting project,” said Sue Churchich, president at Churchich Recreation & Design. “This playground is a testament to our commitment to creating spaces where children of all abilities can come together, interact, and form lasting friendships.”
The groundbreaking Hilton Head project will serve as a joyous example of the inclusive play standards created by Best Buddies’ and Miracle’s alliance that municipalities, parks and recreation, and schools around North America can count on when seeking requests for proposals on their own inclusive playgrounds.
“Our industry has made great progress in advancing inclusion over the last 10-15 years, but much more can be done,” said Todd Brinker, senior vice president, commercial growth, for outdoor play at PlayPower®, Miracle Recreation’s parent company. “Best Buddies thought leadership and expertise across the IDD community gives us the unique opportunity to offer a wide range of high-quality inclusive play spaces to communities across North America. Our goal is that by 2027, the majority of all new Miracle playgrounds installed will be Best Buddies inclusive playgrounds.”
To learn more about becoming a Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation inclusive community and designing your own inclusive play space, visit Miracle-Recreation.com/Best-Buddies.
About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants in each of the 50 states and in 45 countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle Recreation, pioneers the world of thrilling commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children experience perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.
Play area was made possible by FOX10, Palmer’s Airport Hyundai, Palmer’s Toyota Superstore, AM/NS Calvert, ADEM, Kimberly-Clark, United Way of Southwest Alabama, Mobile County, Mobile County Public Schools and Miracle Recreation
MOBILE, Ala., Nov. 7, 2024 — Make An Impact Foundation, the non-profit dedicated to promoting the education and well-being of underserved children nationwide, today announced the opening of a new playground at Whitley Elementary School in Prichard, Alabama. The fourth Mobile County playground made possible by the foundation, it will provide Whitley students with a safe place to play and socialize during the school day.
A grand opening celebration for the school community is scheduled for this afternoon at Whitley Elementary.
The new play area features play equipment from Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century. Play activities include classic equipment such as climbers, ladders, and slides, as well as Miracle’s Ten Spin, which allows up to 10 children of all abilities to play at once while providing a sensory experience that supports child development. The Whitley Elementary playground also features the Wavy Wedge Wall Walker, a swerving structure offering a myriad of foot and handholds for kids to choose from as they travel from the deck to the ground and vice versa.
“We are overjoyed about opening our fourth playground in the Mobile area and our first at a local school,” said Dale Gillmore, founder and board chairman of Make An Impact Foundation. “Outdoor play during the school day has been shown to improve concentration, mental health, and a more engaged learning experience. The playground at Whitley Elementary will serve the school community in countless ways thanks to the commitment of FOX10, the United Way of Southwest Alabama and the local sponsors.”
Make An Impact Foundation partners with organizations to create places where all kids have equal opportunity and ability to play freely without barriers. To make this exciting new play space a reality, Make An Impact Foundation worked with FOX10 and the United Way of Southwest Alabama to bring together community. The play space at Whitley Elementary is made possible through donations from partners including Palmer’s Airport Hyundai, Palmer’s Toyota Superstore, AM/NS Calvert, ADEM, Kimberly-Clark, Mobile County, and Mobile County Public Schools.
About Make An Impact Foundation:
The mission of Make An Impact Foundation (MAIF), a 501(c)(3), is to promote the education and well-being of children. MAIF identifies children in severe need (homeless, poverty, etc.) as well as those with learning needs, emotional needs, disabilities, or disease and creates opportunities to produce a change in their lives. Our vision at MAIF is to meet the needs of children by identifying worthwhile projects, empowering project champions, and finding donor partners to help meet each need. For more information about MAIF visit our website, www.MakeAnImpactNow.org.
About Miracle® Recreation
Founded nearly a century ago, Miracle Recreation inspires communities to develop kids with the character to lead tomorrow through its high-quality playgrounds. A division of PlayPower®, Inc., Miracle Recreation, pioneers the world of thrilling commercial outdoor play equipment with the belief that a lifetime of self-discovery, independence, and leadership begins on a playground. That’s where children take perceived risks, which challenge and transform them, opening their minds to new perspectives. To learn more, visit Miracle-Recreation.com.
About FOX10 Playground Project:
Playgrounds are more than a place to play. They help build a child’s self-esteem, teach them how to work with others, enhance their critical thinking skills and help their bodies stay healthy. Playgrounds are a great place for families and neighbors to create memories together. Let’s put our commitment to the community to work and build a playground together! FOX10 is teaming up with Miracle, United Way of Southwest Alabama, and Make An Impact to build a brand new playground for Mobile area families. You can follow the FOX10 Playground Project to completion on-air, online and on social media.
About United Way of Southwest Alabama
The United Way of Southwest Alabama (UWSWA) serves Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile, and Washington Counties. Created in 1926 as a Community Chest, UWSWA’s mission is to improve the quality of life in the community. The vision of UWSWA is to strengthen communities by focusing on uniting and mobilizing resources in support of the building blocks for a better life: Education, Financial Stability, Health, and Essentials. UWSWA has raised and invested more than $240 million into our community to help strengthen the capacity of positive community progress. Many of these issues that affect our community are addressed by the funded programs and initiatives that help more than 200,000 local people each year. For more information, visit www.uwswa.org.
Media contact:
Jennifer Leckstrom
RoseComm for Miracle Recreation [email protected]
215-681-0770
If you’re a housing developer or planner, your aim is to create the spaces buyers long to live in. When homebuyers picture the ideal neighborhood for their kids to grow up in, images of children thrilled by slides and swings instantly come to mind.
Playgrounds make communities better places for families to live while also benefitting developers in a competitive market. Keep reading to discover how playgrounds create advantages for housing developers and improve neighborhoods.
Community Benefits of Playground Installations
Playgrounds help communities thrive. Here are three ways neighborhood playgrounds can enrich the lives of people in your housing development:
1. Enhance Social Interaction
Friendships built on the playground can last a lifetime. Playgrounds are a space for kids of all ages to connect and interact. This lets the kids lead the way in strengthening community ties.
Research shows that green spaces and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds help reduce violence and crime. When kids play together, parents meet each other and neighbors learn to look out for one another. As these relationships deepen, they help communities become happier, more secure and more welcoming of diversity.
2. Improve Physical and Mental Health
A thrilling neighborhood playground is ideal for boosting kids’ physical and mental health. Playgrounds encourage kids to engage their bodies and imaginations. As they play, their cardiovascular health and functional strength improve, and they enjoy healthy social interactions and deepen friendships.
With all these positive health factors, the research findings of improved health outcomes are unsurprising. For example, kids living near playgrounds have 11% better mental health results on the Child Behavior Checklist scale. Access to well-equipped parks and playgrounds also helps reduce child obesity risks.
3. Increase Property Values
Whether they’re aware of the research or not, families know their kids love playgrounds and like to buy properties in neighborhoods that have them. This increases the demand for homes in these communities, boosting their value.
Market research shows that the nearer a home is to a playground or park and the better equipped those amenities are, the greater the increase in the home’s value. This means a neighborhood playground can significantly impact the net worth and financial prosperity of families in your development.
Neighborhood Playground Benefits for Developers
Many of the benefits of playgrounds for housing developments also increase developers’ return on investment. These are just a few examples of how installing playgrounds for neighborhoods can benefit developers:
Attract Families
For your housing development to succeed, it has to attract families. Along with the type and affordability of housing, people consider the overall quality of life in a community when deciding to buy or move there.
Amenities like playgrounds go a long way toward creating the quality of life families want. Given their benefits for community cohesion, child well-being and property values, a neighborhood playground is sure to draw families to your development.
Differentiate Developments
There are around 150 million homes in the United States, and this number is increasing by well over a million each year. Even when demand is high, the housing market can be competitive for developers looking to differentiate their developments and attract buyers. Buyers will compare your development to others and ask themselves which offers a better quality of life. Families with children will weigh their kids’ happiness heavily when making these decisions.
When you install a well-equipped playground for your housing development, you set your community apart from all others that lack this exciting amenity. For many families, a playground adds to a development’s overall appeal. For some, this could be the scale-tipping factor that leads them to buy one of your properties.
Boost Community Image
Before potential buyers look into the specifics of your properties — and sometimes even before they look at pricing — they’ll take notice of your development’s image and reputation. When a buyer thinks about a neighborhood, the images and psychological associations that come to mind have a major impact on whether they want to move there.
Installing a playground for your development shows a commitment to family-friendly environments, inclusive communities and kids’ health. This helps create a positive image and reputation to help your neighborhood shine.
5 Playground Planning and Design Tips
To make the most of a playground installation’s advantages for your housing development, there are a few things to keep in mind. The following tips will help you ensure your neighborhood playground is well-received and adds the most value to your community:
Consider age-appropriateness: Playgrounds can be fun for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. However, every age group will have different capabilities and preferences. The ideal solution is to create different playground sections for each age group.
Maximize accessibility: The more kids who can access your playground, the greater its impact will be. To start, comply with the relevant Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. Compliance will involve measures like planning unobstructed routes to the equipment, implementing access ramps and adding ADA-compliant surfacing.
Promote inclusivity: An inclusive playground goes beyond minimum accessibility standards to welcome kids and family members of all abilities and backgrounds. For example, you might add a comfortable, quiet area for kids with autism spectrum disorder to regroup if they feel overwhelmed. Ensure the space is close enough to the playground for them to get there easily and rejoin the fun as soon as they’re ready without feeling isolated during their pause.
Invest in durability: For a better return on investment, choose quality playground equipment that’s built to last. This will save money on repair and replacement costs in the long term.
Embrace sustainability: Communities thrive when they have a positive relationship with their environment. One way to support this relationship is to work with a playground equipment manufacturer committed to sustainable business practices. Eco-friendly playground equipment contributes to a better future for the young generations who play on it.
Install the Ideal Housing Development Playground With Miracle® Recreation
If you’re interested in a playground installation for your housing development, Miracle Recreation is your partner in making it happen. We provide quality playground equipment to enhance your development and attract families.
Miracle manufactures playgrounds to thrill kids of all abilities. Our options include ADA-accessible, inclusive and sensory playground equipment. Our playground products are built for durability, according to sustainable practices. To back our playgrounds, we offer industry-leading warranties on our products.
Our friendly customer service team will answer your questions and support you every step of the way, including after your purchase is complete. Find your local Miracle representative today to create an exciting and welcoming playground for your development.
How Playgrounds Can Attract Families to Your Neighborhood
Imagine a couple with kids strolling through a vibrant neighborhood, their eyes lighting up as they spot a bustling playground filled with laughter and joy. This scene could be the deciding factor in their choice to make this community their home. Playgrounds are more than a collection of swings and slides — they are the heartbeat of a neighborhood, drawing families together and creating lasting memories.
In this article, we’ll explore how community playgrounds can become powerful neighborhood attractions, boosting the appeal of your area and attracting families looking for the ideal place to call home.
Playground Benefits for Families
Playgrounds offer more than simple recreation for energetic children. The benefits of playgrounds for families include the following:
1. Child Development
Playgrounds play a crucial role in promoting various aspects of kids’ growth. The physical benefits include increased strength, cardiovascular health and the development of fundamental movement skills such as motor skills and coordination.
Social skills blossom as kids learn to share, take turns and cooperate with others. Emotional development flourishes as they face challenges, build confidence and learn to manage their feelings. Cognitively, playground equipment can stimulate problem-solving skills and spark imagination through creative play.
Outdoor play in community playgrounds helps improve attention spans and reduce the symptoms of attention deficit disorders. The diverse sensory experiences offered by well-designed playgrounds can support sensory integration, which is crucial for overall development.
2. Family Bonding
In a fast-paced world, a neighborhood playground offers a unique opportunity for families to connect and create cherished memories. Parents and caregivers can actively engage with their kids, fostering stronger relationships through shared experiences. Whether it’s pushing a child on a swing or conquering a climbing wall together, these moments of joy and laughter strengthen family bonds.
Playgrounds also provide a neutral ground for families to interact without the distractions of home or electronic devices. This focused time together allows for meaningful conversation and observations, helping parents stay attuned to their kids’ development and interests.
3. Health and Wellness
One of the most significant playground benefits is the positive impact on health and wellness for kids and adults. Regular playground visits encourage physical activity, which is crucial in combating childhood obesity and promoting overall health. The varied movements involved in playground play — climbing, swinging, balancing — help develop strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness.
For adults, supervising active kids provides an opportunity for light exercise. Outdoor exercise offers exposure to fresh air and sunlight, boosting vitamin D levels and improving mood.
4. Community Building
Community playgrounds serve as social hubs, bringing neighbors together and encouraging interaction. As families gather, friendships form naturally, creating a sense of belonging and fostering a strong community spirit. These connections can lead to increased neighborhood cohesion, improved safety through community vigilance and a more supportive environment for all residents.
Regular playground visits can help newcomers integrate into the community more quickly, breaking down social barriers and fostering inclusivity. Community events centered around the playground, such as seasonal festivals or play days, can further strengthen bonds and create a shared sense of ownership and pride in the neighborhood amenities.
Key Features of Attractive Playgrounds
A neighborhood playground must offer more than just basic equipment to attract families. Here are some essential elements that make a play area irresistible:
1. Variety of Equipment
An enticing playground caters to kids of all ages and abilities. Consider low-to-the-ground play areas with gentle slopes and smaller steps for younger kids. Older kids might enjoy more challenging equipment that offers a sense of thrill, like climbing walls or unique sliding experiences.
Consider incorporating equipment that encourages cooperative play, such as see-saws or multi-person spinners. These elements add excitement and promote social interaction and teamwork.
Innovative play elements like musical instruments, interactive panels or nature-inspired features can add an educational dimension to the play experience, making community playgrounds fun and enriching.
2. Cleanliness and Maintenance
A well-maintained playground is more inviting for families. Regular inspections, prompt repairs and daily cleaning show that your community values this important neighborhood amenity. Clean, well-kept equipment looks more appealing and gives parents peace of mind about their kids’ experience on the playground.
Implement a robust maintenance schedule that includes daily hazard checks, weekly equipment inspections and periodic deep cleaning. Install trash cans and encourage a “leave no trace” mentality among playground users.
3. Visual Appeal
The visual appeal of a playground makes it a neighborhood attraction. To create a park-like atmosphere, include natural elements like trees for shade and landscaping. Colorful equipment can add visual interest, but remember that a balance of hues is often more appealing and inclusive for children with sensory processing disorder.
Thoughtful landscaping can create natural play areas, such as small hills for rolling or native plant gardens for exploration. Consider adding public art or themed elements that reflect the local culture or history, making the playground a unique reflection of your community. Creative use of texture and materials can add sensory richness to the play experience while enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Impact on Property Values
Investing in high-quality community playgrounds can have a tangible impact on local property values. Research has shown that homes near well-maintained parks and open playgrounds are often valued higher.
The presence of an attractive playground can make a neighborhood more desirable to families, potentially increasing demand for homes in the area. This added value can contribute to pride in the neighborhood amenities and encourage long-term residency, leading to a more stable and thriving neighborhood.
Creating a Family-Friendly Playground
For communities looking to develop or improve their playgrounds, here are some practical tips:
Engage the community in the planning process. Host meetings or put out surveys to gather input on desired features and design elements.
Partner with experienced playground designers who understand the latest trends and safety requirements.
Consider the site carefully. Choose a location that’s easily accessible and visible, promoting convenience and safety.
Plan for all seasons. Incorporate features that make the community playground enjoyable year-round, such as shade for summer.
Provide seating for parents and caregivers. Comfortable seating encourages longer visits and social interaction among adults.
Implement a regular maintenance schedule to keep the playground in top condition.
Add lighting for extended hours of use, especially in areas with shorter daylight during winter months.
Create clear signage about playground rules and age-appropriate equipment use.
Plan for future growth and changes in your community’s demographics to ensure the playground remains relevant and well-used over time.
Creating a family-friendly playground is an ongoing process. Regular evaluations and updates based on community feedback can help ensure your play area continues to meet families’ needs for years to come.
Build Community With Miracle® Recreation
Community playgrounds attract families to your neighborhood and foster a sense of community. They offer numerous benefits for childhood development, family bonding, health and community building. By investing in well-designed, safe and attractive play areas, communities can create magnetic neighborhood attractions that enhance property values and quality of life for all residents.
Ready to take the next step in creating an unforgettable play experience? Explore Miracle Recreation’s innovative playground equipment and design services. Our team is passionate about bringing the thrill of play to communities like yours. With decades of experience, we provide custom solutions to fit your space, budget and vision.
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A freshman at Arcadia High School and self-described learning enthusiast and philomath, Jha created “Simple Worlds” as a playground of discovery, transporting users to different parts of the universe, including but not limited to the deep ocean and space.
