October is National Disability Awareness Month, and if you’ve been following along on our social media, chances are you’ve seen the “Disability Awareness Community Highlight” posts we’ve been making. While the work of ensuring an inclusive and accessible community is always ongoing, fortunately, Wayne County is home to communities that see the importance of inclusion and work hard to make sure everyone has a place to belong.
Community playgrounds are a perfect example. Across Wayne County, more parks are incorporating sensory features and equipment that children of all abilities can enjoy together. Playgrounds that are leading the way include Clear Creek Park in Richmond, the new playground at Creitz Park in Cambridge City, and the new playground in Economy.
Playgrounds that Bring Everyone Together
Located on West Main Street in Richmond, the playground at Clear Creek Park is a great example, as it features a sensory playground designed specifically to engage and include children with disabilities. Highlights include a sensory play area, an inclusive team swing, an accessible swing, and ramps that allow children to access various parts of the playground. The result? A space where kids can play side-by-side, regardless of physical ability.
Creitz Park in Cambridge City and the town of Economy are also great examples, both of which recently updated their playground equipment thanks to donations from local residents and organizations, in addition to a funding match by the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority’s CreatINg Places program. Two accessible swings, two inclusive team swings, an inclusive spinner, and sensory equipment are all part of the new playground at Creitz Park. Economy also has an inclusive swing as part of the new playground.
More than Equipment
For many families, these upgrades mean more than just new equipment. For parents of children with disabilities, a trip to the park can sometimes feel out of reach when playgrounds aren’t designed with accessibility in mind. Inclusive playgrounds help remove those barriers, allowing families to share experiences they might not have been able to before.
As we celebrate Disability Awareness Month, let’s continue recognizing and supporting efforts that make Wayne County a more inclusive place for everyone. Whether it’s through advocacy, volunteerism, or simply appreciating the thoughtful design of our community spaces, every effort brings us closer to a world where everyone has the chance to play, explore, and belong.
