FAQ

How will the funds raised be used?

Funds raised will be used to build an inclusive and accessible playground where children of all abilities can play alongside one another. Funding will support the cost of playground equipment, accessible surfacing and installation.

What is inclusive play?

Inclusive play removes physical and social barriers so that all children can fully participate.

Inclusive play environments and equipment are designed for equitable use to (1) Be Fair; designed for flexibility so all kids can (2) Be Included; designed to be simple and intuitive so all kids can (3) Be Smart; designed with perceptible information where all kids can (4) Be Independent; designed to be tolerant of error to (5) Be Safe; designed to be require low sustained physical effort so all kids can (6) Be Active; and designed with the appropriate size and space for approach and use so all kids can (7) Be Comfortable.

(7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design, Me2 by PlayCore, 2016 & Center for Universal Design, 1997)

Who are children with disabilities?

Out of 1,000 children between the ages of 3 and 21, approximately 85 will have these disabilities:

1 Physical
1.5 Sensory
2 Multiple Disabilities
11 Chronic Health Conditions
11 Social-Emotional
17 Communication
41.5 Cognitive

(U.S. Department of Education, 2015)

Why can't children with disabilities play at other playgrounds?

Children with disabilities may face challenges that are not always visible. For instance, Children diagnosed with Autism may struggle with processing sensory information. Providing a play space with alternative textures and building materials gives them an opportunity to participate.

Mulch is commonly used on playgrounds and while it is ADA approved, it is extremely challenging for children in wheelchairs or those who need walking assistance to access play equipment surrounded by wood chips.

How can I help?

Currently, our biggest hurdle is the financial component. We invite you to donate via cash, check (Payable to Stranahan Elementary PTA), Venmo or PayPal. Links to our Venmo and PayPal accounts can be found on the Donations tab.

In addition to monetary donations, we are also seeking items for raffles and auctions. Items such as gift certificates, event tickets and memorabilia all make great donations.

If I can't give money, are there other ways I can help?

Absolutely! You can help by raising awareness and sharing our information with others. If you know of other potential sponsors we should contact or if there is a service you provide that you think may generate donors, please reach out to us at stranahanpto@gmail.com.

Additionally, we are always looking for volunteers to support our fundraising events. Contact us a stranahanpto@gmail.com to see what fundraisers are currently being planned and how you can provide support.

Is there a deadline for donations?

There is no deadline currently. However, the sooner we reach our funding requirements, the sooner we can secure equipment and schedule installation.

What if I don't have Venmo or PayPal? Can I use a credit card?

We accept cash and checks made payable to Stranahan Elementary PTA. Donations can be mailed or delivered directly to Stranahan Elementary PTA at 3840 N. Holland-Sylvania Rd., Toledo, OH 43615.

PayPal accepts credit card payments. Access this option by clicking on the Donate button on our Donations page.

What is the expected timeline for the project?

Our goal is to break ground on the new inclusive playground summer 2025, contingent on funding needs being met.

Who will benefit from this project?

The ENTIRE community will benefit from the project. An inclusive playground will bring the entire community together. Children of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to play alongside one another. Furthermore, play fosters social, emotional and physical development.

Whether your child has been diagnosed with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, developmental delays or is typically developing, this playground will be built for you. Our goal is to remove the barriers that limit play so that kids can be kids and just have fun!

Who is the Stranahan PTA?

The Stranahan Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of Sylvania is a 501(c)3 public non-profit comprised solely of volunteers, so 100% of your donation* will go directly to support the inclusive playground.

*Donations made via Venmo or PayPal have a processing fee. As a result, large donations are encouraged via check.