SHAWANO, WI – Safe Haven has officially opened its newly remodeled playground, creating a space designed to support healing, learning, and growth for children and families served by the organization.
Executive Director Mindy Lohff says the new playground is about much more than recreation. For children who have experienced trauma, she says play can be an important part of the healing process.
“Healing doesn’t only happen in advocacy sessions, support groups, or courtrooms,” Lohff said. “For children who have experienced trauma, play is healing.”
The updated playground provides a safe and welcoming environment where children can build confidence, develop social skills, and learn through play while their parents or guardians receive services from Safe Haven staff.
Lohff says the playground has already become a valuable resource for local families, with children enjoying the equipment while parents meet with advocates and other staff members.
The project was made possible through a collaborative community effort. Lohff thanked the City of Shawano and the Shawano Parks and Recreation Department, whose staff volunteered their time to install the playground equipment.
“We could not have done this without the incredible support of so many,” Lohff said. “Shawano Parks and Recreation for volunteering to install the playground equipment.” Safe Haven also thanked other funders of the project including Mielke Family Foundation, Egan Foundation and Thedacare Family of Foundations.
Safe Haven serves individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other traumatic experiences. Lohff says the remodeled playground reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive environment where every member of the family has an opportunity to heal.
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