BY BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The capital drive to raise funds to renovate South Ward Park in Decatur has met its goal – and then some.
“We are beyond excited to announce that we have officially met our $50,000 goal,” Parks Superintendent Cara Gerber announced today.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we have raised $51,034 through Patronicity.”
The community drive needed to raise $50,000 in order to gain a $50,000 match from Patronicity’s IHCDA state program.
The news only gets better. Thanks to an Adams Memorial Hospital offer to match donations, another $10,000 will be added to the drive.
“That means we currently have $61,034 raised in our community, with another $50,000 in matching grant funds from IHCDA,” Gerber said.
Which means a total of $111,034 will be available to revamp the park, making it an all-inclusive area for youngsters and adults.
Gerber also said that six days remain in drive, which means donations will continue to be accepted after the Nov. 2 deadline “as we keep working toward creating this inclusive space where children and families of all ages, abilities, and needs can play, connect, and make memories together.”
The parks superintendent issued “a very special thank-you to the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) for making this matching grant possible through the CreatINg Places program.
“This program gives communities the opportunity to turn local ideas into meaningful improvements by bringing community support and matching grant dollars together. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the investment in our community!”
And she expressed deep appreciation to all who donated to and supported the drive.
“To every individual, family, business, organization, and community partner who has donated, shared our posts, encouraged us, or helped spread the word, thank you! Every bit of support has helped get us here.
“This is what happens when a community comes together, and we couldn’t be prouder to be part of Decatur and Adams County.”
Plans for the park include a universally designed playground with accessible and sensory-focused play opportunities, a toddler play structure, improved sidewalks and accessibility.
“This park is about so much more than playground equipment,” Gerber said. “It’s about making sure every child has a place to play, every family has a place to gather, and everyone has a place to belong.”
About the Author
