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An initiative to build an inclusive playground is getting a financial boost from the Rainbow Connection.

The organization has committed $125,000 for the project at Tuscora Park. Executive Director Perci says making areas handicap accessible has been a recent mission for the non-profit.

“Whether it be handicap buttons on the doors of the Tuscarawas County library, the train at Tuscora Park, in New Philadelphia we did some bleachers and things at their Southside Park for their soccer facilities, and we just want to make sure people are able to access different things and amenities that they might not have been able to otherwise.”

Garner says their contribution is possible because of the local community’s generosity each year at their telethon fundraiser.

“Pretty much made it possible for us to do any type of assistance whether it be individuals, organizations, or schools who all support disabled and disadvantaged individuals. Without our community we wouldn’t be able to do any of this.”

The project is spearheaded by New Philadelphia High School teacher Preston Cornell. It’s set to feature wheelchair-accessible swings, slides, sensory play zones, and inclusive games.

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