SHAWANO, WI – Shawano Parks and Recreation Director Matt Hendricks provided an update on the project during a recent Common Council meeting, saying most of the funding needed for the improvements has already been secured.
“The Mielke Foundation was here a few months ago, they awarded some money to the community and Safe Haven for that,” Hendricks said.
The playground serves a unique role within the community, providing a secure outdoor space for individuals and families utilizing Safe Haven’s services.
“For many of us who are fortunate, we maybe go into a public space or public park and we don’t necessarily have to worry about threats,” Hendricks said. “That’s not true for everybody unfortunately, and many of those people live in our community.”
Hendricks noted that while the playground is smaller than a typical city park, it provides an important safe and controlled environment for those who use it.
“What it does is it allows for these people to feel comfortable and safe and secure,” he said.
Construction is expected to begin this week, marking a significant milestone for the project.
In addition to funding provided through the Mielke Foundation, the City of Shawano is contributing by providing installation services through its Parks and Recreation Department.
Hendricks said city crews have the expertise needed to complete the work and that donating those services allowed Safe Haven to invest more money directly into playground improvements.
“We’re able to help them and whatever money they would have paid for installation, they were then able to actually put back into the playground,” Hendricks said.
Because of the city’s involvement, Safe Haven was able to expand the scope of the project beyond its original plans.
“They were able to make their playground bigger because we were able to use some of our skilled folks to do things that they do for a profession,” Hendricks said.
Hendricks called the partnership a unique opportunity for city staff to give back to the community while helping an organization that serves residents facing difficult circumstances.
“We’re excited to be a part of that and grateful to be able to help out with the project,” he said.
Once completed, the renovated playground will provide a larger, updated, and secure recreational space for the children and families who rely on Safe Haven’s services.
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