In the heart of Garrett County, Maryland, lies the picturesque Deep Creek Lake, a destination known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. Amidst this serene landscape, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club embarked on a remarkable journey in 2023, driven by a vision of inclusivity and community engagement.
Recognizing the need for an inclusive playground that caters to individuals of all abilities, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club established a special advisory committee. This committee’s mission was clear: to collaborate with various county groups, gather insights, and make recommendations for the creation of an inclusive playground that would not only serve the local community but also attract visitors to the area.
At the forefront of this initiative was the determination of local student Landon Georg and his family, who spearheaded fundraising efforts to turn this vision into reality. Their dedication laid the foundation for what would become the first inclusive playground in Garrett County, situated within the Lions’ McHenry Community Park.
The advisory committee, comprising members from the disability community, community stakeholders, county officials, and experts in accessible design, worked tirelessly to ensure that the playground would meet the diverse needs of its users. Central to their efforts was the development of an Inclusive Playground Survey, designed to gather input from a wide spectrum of community members, including those with disabilities.
The response to the survey was overwhelming, with 524 community members providing valuable insights into their preferences and requirements for the inclusive playground. The survey revealed overwhelming support for specialized equipment that caters to users of varying ability levels, emphasizing the importance of features such as accessibility, safety, and sensory elements.
Among the key findings of the survey were insights into demographics and usage patterns, challenges and needs faced by individuals with disabilities, barriers to accessibility, and recommendations for structural features and specialized equipment. Importantly, the survey highlighted the strong community support for the project, with an overwhelming majority expressing willingness to contribute to fundraising efforts.
Mike O’Brien, president of the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club, expressed gratitude for the community’s engagement and emphasized the valuable insights gained from the survey. He commended the dedicated team of researchers who worked tirelessly to make this initiative a success and reiterated the Club’s commitment to realizing the inclusive playground.
As the project moves forward, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club invites further engagement from the community. Detailed information, including the executive summary and full text of the Inclusive Playground Survey Report, is available on the Club’s website. Additionally, those interested in supporting the project or getting involved can reach out via email or phone.
In creating an inclusive playground, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club not only enriches the lives of individuals with disabilities but also fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit. Through collaboration, compassion, and dedication, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future for all.
