On Saturday, Aug. 25 an idea came into realization as a new playground facility was built in Kennedy.
A group of mothers decided that Kennedy needed more playground equipment. The equipment at the school is used during recess and for the young kids not yet in school an area was needed for them to play.
The area at the end of Main Street near the campground is a perfect spot. The open grassy area fit the playground equipment perfectly with room to grow, which is a thought in the backs of the minds of those on the Playground Committee. It's also near washrooms and a covered eating area.
The committee may consist of six people, but it was a community effort that made this a reality. Six months ago they began working away at developing fundraising ideas. Throughout the summer they did catering, pancake breakfasts, a Mother's Day brunch, and an auction sale, as well as a pie making extravaganza in which they made 75 pies from scratch.
There goal had been to have the funds by October; but, they were able to raise it much more quickly than they had thought due to their supportive sponsors, fundraising efforts, and a community 100 percent behind their efforts.
The committee was able to raise $12,500, while the Kennedy Parks and Recreation Board matched this.
Early Saturday morning over 25 people from the area gathered together to begin construction. After removing the sod and excavating 10 inches they laid cement and put the playground together finishing two hours before expected. Hard working volunteers and a supportive community is the reason why this has come about.
Following construction a celebratory supper was held in the Kennedy Hall. Hamburgers, smokies, and beverages were enjoyed.
Though their dream has come to fruition their committee will remain. Whether they raise funds next for the rink or hall they will continue to work towards improving their community with the help of everyone in the area.
Also on the agenda will be the hanging of new swings, bucket swings, for babies. They also would like to expand by adding spring animals, another park bench, and a fresh set of paint on the tires there to spruce things up a little. Another idea is to possibly build a water park near the new playground facilities.
It's quite the feat to have been able to raise the funds in such a short amount of time. Everyone was quite happy to be a part of the day and the children were all smiles as they were given the "go-ahead" to play on the structure.
