Community Unites to Build New Playground
On a hot and muggy Saturday morning construction began on a new inclusive playground at Candy Cane Park. Despite the weather, over 50 local volunteers of all ages came together in a remarkable display of community spirit to help build a playground that will soon be enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities.
The effort was truly a community affair. Volunteers included a crew from the New Glarus Volunteer Fire Department, neighbors of Candy Cane Park, and many other local residents. Mike Nevill from Chalet Landhaus Restaurant generously provided lunch for the hardworking crew, serving a much-needed meal at noon to keep everyone nourished and volunteers energized for the afternoon shift.
At press time, the playground equipment’s construction was approximately two-thirds complete, with additional work scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday. The equipment is on track to be built before the end of this week, and then crews will arrive sometime after that to install a rubber pour-in-place subsurface around the equipment. Paving of the two new accessible parking stalls will then be completed in the spring.
“We have a wonderful and incredibly generous community,” said Shelly Johnson, President of New Glarus Cares. “It was truly heartwarming to see so many people come together for a cause that will bring joy to so many children and families. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our volunteers and donors.”
The playground is being funded by a combination of sources, including contributions from the Village of New Glarus, a matching grant from an anonymous nonprofit, and generous donations from Only In Wisconsin Giving, The Bank of New Glarus, Colony Brands, Grace Church, money raised by New Glarus Cares at the World Euchre Championship, and donations from many other local supporters.
The community’s commitment to creating a space where every child can enjoy the joys of play is evident in every piece of equipment installed and every volunteer hour spent. With just a little more work to be done, Candy Cane Park’s new inclusive playground is set to be a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together. Details will be forthcoming shortly regarding the official ribbon-cutting and community picnic to celebrate.
