New Candy Cane Park Playground

The new inclusive playground at Candy Cane Park is a shining example of what our community can achieve when we come together with a shared vision. New Glarus Cares took the lead on this project, transforming a beloved local park into a space where children of all abilities can play and connect. This playground isn’t just a place for fun—it’s a symbol of our commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and the well-being of every member of our community.

The Project

Candy Cane Park has long been a favorite spot for families in New Glarus, but the existing playground equipment was rusted, falling apart, and lacked accessibility for children with disabilities. Recognizing the need for new equipment and a space where all children could play together, New Glarus Cares set out to build the village's first inclusive playground. The goal was to create an environment that would not only meet the physical needs of children with disabilities but also foster social inclusion, ensuring that every child could experience the joy of play without barriers.

What We Did

New Glarus Cares spearheaded the project from the ground up, beginning with fundraising efforts that rallied the community around the cause. Through grants, donations, and local fundraising events, we were able to secure the necessary funds to make the vision a reality. We conducted listening sessions with families with disabled children and then worked closely with playground design experts and the Village of New Glarus to select the new playground equipment. We worked to ensure it met the highest standards of safety and accessibility, including accessible swings, sensory play elements, and smooth pathways that allow for easy movement throughout the park. The project also involved renovating existing park features to ensure that the entire area was welcoming and inclusive for everyone.We also organized volunteers to help build the playground, and when completed, we held a ribbon cutting event to celebrate our success.

The Impact

The new inclusive playground has quickly become a cherished addition to Candy Cane Park. Children of all abilities are now able to play side by side, fostering friendships and understanding from an early age. The playground has also become a hub for community gatherings, where families come together to enjoy the outdoors in a space that reflects the values of inclusivity and togetherness. Parents of children with disabilities have expressed their gratitude for a place where their kids can play without limitations, and the entire community has embraced the park as a symbol of what we can achieve when we work together.

Community Involvement

The success of this project is a testament to the power of community involvement. From the initial fundraising efforts to the final touches on the playground, the people of New Glarus played a crucial role in bringing this project to life. Volunteers from all walks of life contributed their time, skills, and resources to ensure the playground was completed on time and to the highest standards. Local businesses chipped in and helped in different ways and countless individuals made donations, large and small, to help us reach our fundraising goals. The collaborative spirit that drove this project is a true reflection of what makes New Glarus such a special place.

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Testimonials

"As a parent of a child with special needs, I can't express how much this playground means to our family. It's wonderful to see my son playing alongside other kids without any barriers. Thank you, New Glarus Cares, for making this possible!"  

— Emma S., New Glarus Resident

"The new playground at Candy Cane Park is a true reflection of our community's spirit. It's a place where everyone is welcome, and I’m proud to have been a part of this project."  

— John D., Local Volunteer

Get Involved

Want to help make a difference in New Glarus? Join us in our ongoing efforts to create a more vibrant community. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or sharing your ideas for future projects, there’s a place for you at New Glarus Cares. Contact us today to find out how you can get involved and be a part of the positive change happening in our village.