Thanks to everyone who joined the 2023 Fair Play for All campaign to celebrate all the different ways we play and have fun.
Over 6.7 million kids in the United States have some form of a disability. That’s almost 7 million kids who see traditional playgrounds as insurmountable barriers. And it’s not just the kids. Family members who are aging or have disabilities also have a hard time joining their kids in having fun. And with few inclusive playgrounds around the country, this leaves countless kids and their families on the sidelines when it’s time for fun.
That’s because GT is not just an FMS or payroll company. We’re also passionate advocates for people with disabilities–because we’re owned and operated by people with disabilities and their families.
We look forward to the day that every playground is inclusive. Until then, we want to thank everyone who joined us in getting outdoors and celebrating the different ways we all play!
June 5 through June 28, we explored what playing your way means with videos on our Facebook page.
Thanks again to everyone who joined in the fun for an automatic entry into our weekly prize drawing for an accessible swing. There was a winner announced each week. And at the end of June, a grand prize winner won a trip to Morgan’s Wonderland along with three guests of their choice. (One of the most inclusive theme parks in America.) Congrats, Jenn and Alan!
A few years ago, there was not a single ADA-compliant playground in St. Joseph County, Michigan. Maggie has a rare disease called PMM2-CDG. And to play, she had to get out of her wheelchair and onto wood chips during recess. She would then come home with splinters. She also couldn’t access any of the swings or slides.
Holly stepped up and spoke with the local school board about building a playground. One that all children could enjoy. After three years of studying, reading, summarizing research, and citing resources to the school district, Holly became an accessible, inclusive playground designer.
She designed the first ADA-compliant playground in St. Joseph County. A place for Maggie and everyone in the community to enjoy.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990. It’s an incredible act that protects the civil rights of all people with disabilities.
July 26, 2023, marks the 33rd anniversary of this landmark legislation. It’s done so much for people with disabilities across the U.S. But while there is a lot to celebrate, there’s also an opportunity for doing even more. This includes further education on the importance of inclusion. Particularly for kids and their families.
According to the most recent U.S. Census, nearly one in five people have a disability. And 13% of children enrolled in public school (about 6.7 million) receive special education services.
Despite this, most playgrounds aren’t designed so kids or their family members with disabilities can safely have fun. It’s time to change that—everyone can play their way.