With a belief that every child deserves a place to play, feel exhilarated and experience new environments, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital is financially supporting a new all-inclusive playground at a local Ripon park through a $7,500 donation.
 
The Ripon Early Bird and Ripon Noon Kiwanis Clubs, in collaboration with Fond du Lac County, are partnering to raise funds to build an ADA-compliant, all-inclusive playground for children ages five to 12 years. The playground will be built at Riggs Park, adjacent to the existing Kiwanis Splash Pad. Installation is scheduled for 2024 with 2023 as an option if all necessary funds are raised.
 
The playground will be home to more than 40 features, including swings, climbers, slides and spinners—with much of the equipment being designed to be used by children of all abilities. The poured, rubberized safety surface will ensure the playground will be ADA-accessible.
 
“Research findings have consistently shown the incredible benefits of inclusive playgrounds,” according to DeAnn Thurmer, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital president. “They foster social interaction, promote physical activity, and enhance cognitive development among children of all abilities.”
 
This will be the first all-inclusive playground at a county-owned park.
 
“The Ripon area needs an inclusive all-abilities park for everyone, regardless of their physical or developmental ability. Inclusive play promotes understanding, reduces prejudices and supports social integration,” says Joan Karsten, Early Bird Kiwanis Club immediate past president, who initiated the park discussions during her term as president.