PLAYGROUND GAINS MOMENTUM

MCIL pledges $100,000 toward match challenge for inclusive project

The Marin Center for Independent Living has supported people with disabilities and Marin residents with access and functional needs of all ages, including their families and caregivers, for nearly half a century. During Disability Pride Month in July, MCIL and its Board of Directors dedicated $100,000 for a match challenge in an effort to raise $200,000 for the Marin County Parks Inclusive Playground project.

The multi-generational playground is intended to be a place where every child and family, regardless of disability status, age, ability, mobility or sensory needs, can play and connect. The intergenerational aspect also aims to ensure that parents with disabilities and older adults will have an accessible experience when they bring their children and grandchildren to play. The access-for- all playground is planned for McInnis Park in San Rafael and will be a first- of-its-kind community space in Marin County, with an anticipated budget of $6 million.

“At MCIL the independent living philosophy is a call to action for us to ensure that disabled people and older adults find the ‘most integrated setting’ in their communities,” said Ted Jackson, CEO of Marin Center for Independent Living. “This also commits us to supporting their family members and caregivers in that community integration. We all spend a lot of time addressing healthcare, transportation, housing, food access, etc. — all important issues — but we all could focus more on the benefits of play, socializing and bonding with others in our community. The MCIL board and staff are thrilled to prioritize this funding and challenge others to join us.”