After four years of construction and a $ 80,000 fundraiser, Starbright in Kelowna now has a unique playground that supports the development of children.
The idea for the playground came from Councilor Mohini Singh and Kelowna City Fireman Jason Picklyk. The two have been supporters and fundraisers for the child development center for many years, with a focus on the autism program.
“Over the past two years we have been aggressively raising funds so we can make this happen,” said Singh.
According to Rhonda Nelson, executive director of the Starbright Children’s Development Center, they already had a playground for younger children, but it didn’t help their therapy that much.
“With Mohini and Jason helping raise funds, we are only a day away from a nice playground where the kids will be excited but also be able to practice these important physical developmental skills,” explained Nelson.
The playground will serve well over 100 children visiting Starbright, allowing them to practice their fine motor, gross motor, and self-regulatory techniques by using a unique swing that encourages calming linear movement.
The area will also feature a bubble rider for movement and sensory panels for kids to engage with sounds.
Originally the area for the playground belonged to the city of Kelowna, Singh was able to apply for a rezoning and secure the land.
“It really came about because of all those who donated for this little playground. I am so grateful that they believed in our vision, ”said Singh. “Also, Kelowna Toyota really got through because we needed a bit more money and they got through and outperformed us.”
Starbright’s new playground is slated to open next week.
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City of Kelowna
