"Parks and playgrounds in a community can provide opportunities to run and play and may increase unstructured physical activity. If children can easily access safe parks and playgrounds in good repair, they are more likely to engage in recreational physical activity there."
- White House Task Force on Child Obesity Task Force Report
With child obesity at an all time high and young Americans facing formerly adult health issues like hypertension and type 2 diabetes, there is widespread agreement that more parks and playgrounds should be built. The question, though, is how? In many cases, finding the funding for a playground project can seem daunting. Relax, though it could be easier than you might think to find the money for your new playground. Here are some fundraising ideas that can help:
Look locally first: the National Program for Playground Safety (NPPS) suggests, "first check with local civic and community foundations and organizations to see what current initiatives they are funding. Also, some city governments may have block grants available to help make playgrounds handicap accessible."The White House Task Force Report suggests approaching businesses for their help: "Private, nonprofit organizations and corporations have also supported park and playground development in communities. By engaging in park clean-ups and playground development, businesses can take part in initiatives that contribute to community cohesion and improve access to playgrounds and parks."Consider a "Community Build:" one way to save money on your playground equipment project can be to use volunteers to help with installation. One community build playground install in Grand Prairie, Texas was able to get 445 volunteers.Burke has two programs that can really boost your playground funding efforts. In our Funding Resource Center, you can find information on our Funds for Fun PlayKit everything you need to run a direct donation fundraising program. Looking for grant money? We created the BCI Burke Grant Resource Center to provide up to date information on available grants and grant writing services from experts.For information on BCI Burke playground equipment, or to get connected with a Burke playground consultant in your area, visit www.bciburke.com.