The fundraising has progressed slower than expected, but Westview School is forging ahead with its plans to add an inclusive playground structure.
Principal Cheri Haberstock said they have collected more than $17,000, but the playground is expected to cost at least $60,000. They have tried to have a fundraiser each month, and activities this school year have included a Halloween-themed event in October and a baking fundraiser in November.
Their most recent effort was a trade show on Saturday that attracted numerous home-based businesses and other exhibitors.
Future fundraisers include a steak night at the Fired Up Grill in March and a dessert night in conjunction with their Blast production in April.
“Unfortunately we started fundraising right when the economic crisis hit, which has affected us, but the parents are really dedicated and our SCC (school community council) is really working hard,” said Haberstock.
The fundraisers typically bring in between $1,000 and $3,000. They hoped to receive some larger corporate donations, but Haberstock understands the challenges associated with the current economic climate.
“We have received some bigger donations from businesses, but it’s not moving us as fast as we had hoped,” said Haberstock. “I think a lot of people would have liked to give us money, but economically it’s not a good time.”
The school wants to purchase three pieces of coated steel and plastic playground equipment. The largest piece will have numerous attributes, including a wheelchair ramp to make it inclusive for all students.
Westview has one student in Grade 1 who is in a wheelchair, and Haberstock looks forward to the day when that student can make use of the playground structure with the other children who are playing.
“We’re hoping that it will be a playground for everyone,” said Haberstock.
There will also be a medium-sized piece of equipment, and a smaller structure called the Cozy Cocoon. Haberstock noted that other schools with the cocoon find it is popular among children with autism.
Westview has several children with autism spectrum disorder, and Haberstock expects they will appreciate the cocoon.
Haberstock anticipates the inclusive playground will not only be popular with Westview’s students, but it will attract young people from throughout the city outside of school hours.
“There might be children who in need of this kind of inclusive playground structure at other schools,” said Haberstock. “Their parents can bring them over here during the summer or on weekends or after school.”
She hopes the new equipment can be installed in 2017.
