History

History of the Project

Waterford, WI is in the Southeast area of Wisconsin and is to the south of Milwaukee and west of Racine. The community is 5,378 people and has Whitford Park as one of the major places for children to play.

In 2016, the members of Waterford Union High School were presented the opportunity and information on the need for an inclusive playground in the area. The project came about from the leadership and encouragement of Ms. Hannah Merlo who presented the project idea to the group. She came to the group with the condition of the old playground and the need for more kids of all abilities to have the opportunity to play together in a safe and interactive environment. The original playground is pictured along the side. The group then proceeded to approach the school and the community with the idea and was met with positive response. The village gave the nod of approval to the project and the 2016-17 group began the process of raising money for the new playground.

In January of 2017, the group began to investigate into inclusive playground design and set a modest goal of $30,000. In the first 6 months of fundraising, the group managed to raise that $30,000 through the help and generosity of local businesses. They then decided to set a higher goal to improve and increase the number of options for inclusion in the playground design. They participated in activities such as a babysitting event, Mr. Waterford Pageant, Dinner and Bowling fundraisers at River City Lanes and various other events.

When June, 2017 came the 2016-17 senior members graduated and the project was turned over to the care of the 2017-18 National Honor's Members. They began the process of choosing the final design option and continuing fundraising. They participated in projects such as a movie night, an Inclusive Awareness week in collaboration with Best Buddies, dinner fundraisers at River City Lanes, and Mr. Waterford Pageant as well. The current planning includes final design approval, fencing, and site preparation planning.

In the 2018-2019 school year, the playground equipment was purchased. The National Honor Society members continue to raise funds through fence picket sales and are currently organizing the community build and grand opening.