UCP of Greater Cleveland will celebrate the complete renovation and reopening of their brand new adaptive and inclusive playground for individuals with disabilities during an intimate dedication event on Saturday, October 10, 2020. The small gathering, featuring remarks from UCP leadership and families, will take place on the playground beginning at 1:00 p.m. outside of the UCP of Greater Cleveland’s Iris S. and Bert L. Wolstein Center on Euclid Avenue. During the event, the lead donors of the project will be honored through the official naming of the Amy and Mike Southard Adaptive & Inclusive Playground.

The originally constructed playground that was built over 20 years ago became weathered and worn.  Its use by UCP therapists and children was no longer an option. However, due to the generosity of Amy and Mike Southard through their foundation Crofton Cares, demolition of the old equipment and surfacing began in January 2020, followed by spring/early summer construction and was recently completed to be enjoyed by those affiliated with UCP.

“This new playground is literally a dream come true for our staff.  When asked a few years ago what they needed to better serve these children with significant developmental disabilities, they immediately answered “an adaptive and inclusive playground,” said Trish Otter, President and C.E.O. of UCP.  “As a non-profit organization that operates at a deficit in order to serve the needs of these children and their families, this was a tall order to fill.  We are very grateful for this wonderful gift.”  This event will be closed to the public; however, members of the media are invited to attend. Social distancing and mask wearing will be adhered to.

About UCP of Greater Cleveland

The mission of UCP of Greater Cleveland is to empower children and adults with disabilities to advance their independence, productivity and inclusion in the community. More than 1,500 individuals with a wide variety of disabilities, not only cerebral palsy, benefit annually from high-quality therapy services, family supports, and community integration and employment opportunities. The nonprofit organization employs 160 individuals offering comprehensive children’s therapy services through LeafBridge, A Center of Excellence for Children, and adult employment and community integration services through OakLeaf, A Center of Excellence for Adults. The UCP of Greater Cleveland headquarters is located at 10011 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106. The agency also operates a location at Highland Hills and at various educational and vocational sites throughout Cuyahoga and surrounding counties. Please visit ucpcleveland.org to learn more.