The new playground at Volunteers Community Park in Williamston has come a bit closer to reality with a $10,000 Community Impact Grant from the Capital Region Community Foundation (CRCF). Friends of Williamston Parks (FOWP) and the Williamston Area Beautification Fund (WABF) were one of 14 recipients to be awarded funds from an initial pool of 52 applicants.

“We are happy to help support the Volunteers Community Park Playground in Williamston with one of our 2018 Impact Grants,” said CRCF Director of Programs Pauline Pasch. “Outdoor spaces where residents can gather and actively engage with one another are crucial for a community’s wellbeing. This park and the dedication of Friends of Williamston Parks will give our region more places to join together and become a thriving, vibrant community where we are proud to live.”

The Lansing-based foundation helps nonprofits in Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties. According to FOWP member Heather Galecka, “The CRCF grant assures we have matching funds in place to take advantage of additional grant opportunities. The new playground will cost about $75,000 to complete, and this grant is a big step toward our goal.”

Adjacent to the popular basketball courts and next to The Commons, the 85-foot by 50-foot playground area will feature four elements: a play structure featuring slides and climbing options, four swings, a Ten Spin that allows you to stand, kneel or sit while spinning, and a Tri Totter which provides three children the opportunity to bounce at the same time.

For more information about Friends of Williamston Parks, visit www.williamstonparks.org. To make a general donation to the playground project, mail checks payable to WABF (memo: FOWP) to PO Box 116, Williamston, MI 48895 or via PayPal at williamstonparks@gmail.com.