Children with and without disabilities can play together on a colorful play structure. KASH (Kids Are Special Here) Playground is a universally accessible play environment at Mead Park in Stevens Point, WI. The KASH Playground project was first initiated by a group of 6 individuals participating in Leadership Portage County program (a community based program designed to develop and foster future l
eaders within our community). During the initial phases of the class project the group realized the need to make this playground a reality. The group conducted a needs analysis for special needs playground by meeting with health and human services, education, health care and government officials. The diverse group working on KASH Playground project is comprised of volunteers and leaders from education, health care, business, and government sectors. Each individual brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the need as well as the impact an integrated playground can have on our community. This group worked closely with the Stevens Point Parks Department and City Council. Kareen Everman, mother of a special needs child and a community advocate who personally understands the need for this playground, chaired the KASH Playground Board. Kareen's son Brett was disabled in a car crash in 1997. Her son, along with 1,000 other special needs children and families in our community did not have a playground for which the children could meet and play with other children, regardless of ability.
