Inclusive, accessible playground build to begin in June

Since August 2023, members of the Stranahan Parent Teachers Association of Sylvania have been working toward their goal of raising $650,000 to construct an inclusive and accessible community playground on the school property that the entire community will be able to enjoy.
With recent contributions from the city of Sylvania and Sylvania Township, nearly 90 percent of that goal has been reached. According to Tara Haye, Stranahan PTA president and one of the leading advocates for the project, construction plans are underway for a summer groundbreaking. “We are very grateful and most appreciative of the support we have received from the city, township, and local businesses and organizations,” she noted.
“Thanks to the teamwork, collaboration and the support of our community, we will be able to develop this inclusive and accessible outdoor playground that allows both typically developing children and children with special needs a place to play alongside one another. The playground will address physical accessibility as well as sensory, emotional, and cognitive accessibility,” she pointed out.
“Playgrounds provide a multi-sensory experience that promotes brain growth. Socialization through play is often taken for granted. Play fosters social, emotional, and physical development. When children have the opportunity to participate in play alongside their peers, they grow, they develop, and they find joy. Disabled children and their families though are faced with daily challenges that typically developing children do not have to face. And, one in six children has a disability. These disabilities range from physical to sensory to cognitive. However, a playground where physical and social barriers have been removed can create inclusive places where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and can participate,” she noted.
PTA members have been working with many businesses and groups in the community to realize their fundraising goals. These efforts included hosting a benefit dinner last June, making informative and educational presentations throughout the community, and applying for grants to name just a few. The group plans to continue to apply for grants and participate in Red Bird Sylvania events through the winter to reach their financial goal.
While the playground will be located at Stranahan Elementary School, it will be accessible to the entire community. “Wildwood MetroPark connects directly to the site and Sylvania Recreation baseball fields are adjacent to the site making it an ideal location for all to enjoy,” Haye said.
The organization has partnered with Penchura, Inc. for the design and construction of the inclusive playground. Equipment will be supplied by Landscape Structures, Inc.
As most of the playground will be a “Community Build,” the organization is seeking volunteers with and without construction experience. Those interested can sign up at Community Build Volunteers or visit the Stranahan PTA website, sites.google.com/view/stranahan-pta-inclusive-play/home.
According to Haye, construction will take approximately one month to complete with the majority during two Community Build weekends in June 2025. Volunteers can sign up for half-day or full-day shifts. Experience is not required.
“This playground is more than just a place for children to play, it’s a statement for our community. It shows that we value everyone and that we embrace differences. It teaches children that people with disabilities shouldn’t be separated or segregated. They should be included and supported. This project will create awareness and provide an atmosphere of respect, acceptance, and independence. Ultimately, it will allow children of all abilities to play alongside one another,” Haye concluded.
Those interested in contributing financially or providing in-kind donations can contact stranahanpto@gmail.com or call Tara Haye at 810-515-6403. Donors making contributions of $500 or more will be recognized on permanent signage at the playground. Donations are tax-deductible as Stranahan PTA is a 501(c)3 public non-profit.