LAWTON – With next month marking the two-year anniversary since fundraising began for Lawton’s all-inclusive playground, Joe Chesko, founder of Children United Southwest Oklahoma, said the project is pushing forward with continued community support.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for the project’s fundraising efforts, Chesko is pleased with the project’s progress.
“As of today we’ve raised about $150,000,” Chesko said Saturday. “We still have a ways to go, but we’ve really done well in spite of the obstacles COVID has put before us. The fundraising continues, the energy’s there, the committee’s outstanding, and we’re going forward.”
Project supporters met at Lawton’s Elmer Thomas Park Saturday for a sign dedication highlighting the 60 pieces of equipment such as swings, slides, a merry-go-round for those with mobility issues, as well as equipment specially designed for persons with autism.
What began as an all-inclusive playground for children was transformed into one that will also allow veterans, elderly as well as others with mobility issues to enjoy alongside their children or grandchildren.
Once the groundwork is completed, the entire playground will set atop a special surface designed for easier wheelchair maneuverability, Chesko stated earlier this year.
Avid supporter Rocko Bonacci, member of Lawton’s Council for the Blind, spoke at the dedication.
This playground “is all about freedom,” said Bonacci. “Whenever you have a child who can’t do what all the other kids do, it can really affect them, basically for the rest of their life. So, that’s why this is so important, and I could not be more proud to be a part of this.”
During a fundraising event, a few years ago Chesko noticed a child in a wheelchair sitting on the sidelines watching other children run, slide and swing at the park adjacent to the new all-inclusive playground location. Weighing on his heart, Chesko then met with members of Lawton Enhancement Trust Authority (LETA) to see what could be done to include children in similar situations.
“Seeing the little boy in the wheelchair right down there stays with me constantly and reminds me that he should be able to play like all the other children,” pointed Chesko. “That’s what’s got me going on this project. And we’re going to continue to go until it’s a reality.”
While the main structure for the playground has already been purchased and delivered, Children United SWOK is continuing its efforts to bring the remaining equipment until the groundwork and installation phases begin.
Chesko stated that the community has been overwhelmingly supportive of the project. That notion was echoed by Mayor Booker, who was also on hand for the sign unveiling.
“This is something that really makes me proud as a mayor that we would get an initiative like this started,” said Mayor Booker. “It’s such a good thing. In the background we hear children playing and having fun. Shouldn’t all children have that opportunity?”
While the organization’s main fundraiser was canceled this year due to public concerns surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, Chesko, Booker, Bonacci and many others have promoted Children United’s all-inclusive playground project.
“Raising money for the playground has brought members of the community together and they’re having a lot of fun,” Booker said. “Last year’s event was packed. There must’ve been 700 people there, and it was fun. We had a great time coming together as a community for a great cause that everybody is invested in.”
With the end of the calendar year coming soon, Chesko reminds readers that donations are tax deductible and are greatly appreciated.
“If anyone would like to donate to the project, they can do a tax-free donation to LETA or contact my office at 580-357-1200,” he said.