Kamas and Francis children with disabilities hope for a playground

Adaptive playground equipment benefits entire communities. Photo: Kelly Sikkema

FRANCIS, Utah. — On July 10 an in-person and virtual fun run seeks to raise funds for the children on the east side of the county to have their own adaptive playground equipment closer to home. The ‘Life is Good’ 5k run is hoping to raise $10k in funds. 

“Suggested to us by a local boy, Ethan Clegg, who was born with cerebral palsy, this playground will enable children of all abilities to grow and play together.” 

Isolation is a problem in the disabled community. Children with disabilities spend a great deal of their free time alone or away from other children, often staring at a computer or television indoors. As a result, they don’t receive positive feedback needed from peers during play. Adaptive playgrounds foster friendships and teach children to find their similarities rather than what makes them different.

The playground will not only enable children with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors, but they will also be able to build the social skills they would normally not have access to. This space will also provide a place for caretakers to connect and find support from other adults.

The race is adaptive equipment accessible as well as kid and stroller friendly. To register for the race, click here.