Tuesday, April 30, 2024
In 2018, a discussion began at Coryell Community Church about the possibility of constructing an all-abilities playground on church property which would allow kids, no matter their physical, social, or mental ability, to play together. CCC pastor, Daniel Crowther, was quoted in 2018 as saying “the playground being located in Gatesville will provide the citizens of Coryell County with access to a resource they would otherwise have to travel more than 30 miles to obtain.”
Construction began on the playground this year and recently culminated with a dedication and ribbon- cutting ceremony on Dec.12. It has been tagged as the first all-abilities playground in Coryell County. Crowther credits his wife, Danielle, with first introducing him to an all-abilities playground in Round Rock.
“I had never seen anything like it,” he said. “I saw all the different kids that were coming to the playground, and I thought this is what heaven must be like. There were kids of all abilities playing with one another and no one was hindered.”
The 7,500 square feet playground, which has been described as a “sensory-rich” environment, will enable the development of all children. The park was especially designed to be more friendly to those who might be suffering from sensory issues.
Crowther described his members as having a “vision” about the proposed playground. “In November of 2018, over three years ago, you [the members] caught that vision and in that amount of time together and from your own generosity, we’ve raised over $233,000 dollars to make this vision a reality.”
Speaking about the public access to the playground, which is located adjacent to the church, Crowther said, “We are a church here for this community and anyone in this community can come there. There is not a lock on the gates. Anyone can come and let their kids play here.”
“We hope that they [the public] know that this is a place that they can grow closer to God and closer to one another.” He also encouraged those present at the dedication to share the news about the playground. “Be inviting to people to come and to take part of this blessing that God has given all of us.”
CCC children’s minister Nicole Shonkwiler was quoted as saying, “We hope that this playground can be used to make amazing memories with family and friends. We pray that this playground is a place for families to visit for years to come.”
