Editor’s note: The Columbiana Project Playground is located in the Harvey S. Firestone Recreational Park, 338 E. Park Ave., Columbiana 44408.
In the heart of Columbiana, something extraordinary is taking shape—more than just a playground, it’s a promise. A promise that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves a place to play, laugh and feel included. Columbiana Project Playground is not just a community project; it’s a movement rooted in compassion, resilience, and the belief that play should be accessible to all.
The story behind the playground
The inspiration for Columbiana Project Playground begins with families in the community who have experienced firsthand the limitations of traditional playgrounds. For parents of children with disabilities, something as simple as a trip to the park can come with barriers—uneven surfaces, inaccessible equipment, and spaces that are unintentionally excluded.
For Stephanie Kale, a mother of three, that reality became deeply personal. After her daughter Sofia was diagnosed with leukodystrophy in 2020 and began using a wheelchair, everyday outings changed. Trips to playgrounds—once carefree and joyful—became reminders of what wasn’t accessible.
But instead of accepting those limitations, Stephanie and others in the community chose to act.
They envisioned a space where children of all abilities could play side by side—a fully inclusive playground designed with intention. A place where ramps replace barriers, sensory-friendly equipment welcomes every child and families can gather without feeling left out.
That vision became Columbiana Project Playground.
Progress and community momentum
What began as an idea has quickly grown into a powerful community effort. Through grassroots organizing, fundraising events, local partnerships, and word-of-mouth support, the project has gained momentum across Columbiana and beyond.
Volunteers, families, local businesses and civic leaders have all played a role in bringing the vision closer to reality. Fundraisers—from community events to sponsorship drives—have helped move the project forward step by step.
Design plans for the playground emphasize accessibility and inclusion at every level. Features will include:
- Wheelchair-accessible play structures.
- Sensory play elements for children with developmental needs
- Inclusive swings and adaptive equipment.
- Safe, navigable surfaces for mobility devices.
- Spaces designed for social interaction and imaginative play.
While progress has been inspiring, the journey is ongoing. Like many community-driven initiatives, it relies on continued support to cross the finish line. So far the committee has raised over $630,000 of the $680,000 needed in just two years.
Why it matters
“Play is more than just fun—it’s essential to childhood development. It fosters creativity, builds social skills, and supports physical and emotional well-being. But for children with disabilities, access to play is often limited,” said Michaela Good, Columbiana Project Playground president.
Inclusive playgrounds change that.
They create opportunities for:
- Connection: Those of all abilities playing together builds empathy and understanding.
- Confidence: Accessible spaces empower children especially to explore independently.
- Community: Families feel welcomed, supported, and included.
Columbiana Project Playground represents a shift in thinking—from designing for “most” to designing for all. And that shift has a ripple effect far beyond the playground itself.
How to get involved
This project thrives because of community involvement—and there are many ways to be part of it.
- Donate – Financial contributions are critical to bringing the playground to life. Donations of any size make a meaningful impact and help fund equipment, materials and construction.
- Sponsor – Local businesses and organizations can support the project through sponsorship opportunities, gaining visibility while making a lasting difference in the community.
- Volunteer – From fundraising events to future build days, volunteers are the backbone of the project. Whether you can give a few hours or more, your time matters.
- Spread the word – Awareness is powerful. Sharing the mission on social media, talking about it with friends and encouraging others to get involved helps grow support.
Building something bigger than a playground
Columbiana Project Playground is more than a destination—it’s a statement about who we are as a community. It says that inclusion matters. That every child deserves joy. That when people come together with purpose, real change happens. The playground may be built with materials and equipment, but its true foundation is something deeper: empathy, determination and hope.
And when it’s complete (aiming for early summer 2026), it won’t just be a place to play—it will be a place where everyone belongs.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, follow Columbiana Project Playground on social media or connect with local organizers supporting the initiative. Points of contact: Website: PlayAtFirestone.com. Email: Fi*****************@***il.com. Instagram: @Firestoneplayground. Donations – Venmo: @Firestoneplayground.
– Submitted by Michaela Good, President, Columbiana Project Playground
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