Waynesboro: Philanthropists step forward to support accessible playground

The Kiwanis Nature Playground is moving forward in Waynesboro after generous donations from two community members helped the club reach its fundraising goal.

Local philanthropist Mary McDermott donated $10,000, and local businesswoman Kim Arehart, owner of Kline’s Dairy Bar and Kline’s Espresso Bar in Waynesboro, donated $7,000 to get the club to the finish line.

Arehart said she was inspired to donate to the project after reading a story in Augusta Free Press.

“Owning the ice cream and coffee shops allow me to do this. I’m so grateful for the community’s support, and I want to give back whenever possible,” Arehart told AFP. “I love being a part of the local community. I enjoy serving others and helping people have fun.”

The $168,000 project will feature inclusive play equipment, nature-themed pieces and sensory-friendly design elements that encourage exploration and connection with nature for children of all abilities. It will be fully ADA-accessible.

Major donors to the project include The Hershey Company, McKee Foods, the Kiwanis Children’s Fund and Westhills LTD Realtors. Numerous local businesses, organizations and individual community members also contributed time, funds and resources to make the playground possible.

“We are so grateful to Mary, Kim, and to every individual, business and organization that supported this project,” said Vicky Ferriera, fundraising chair for the centennial project. “This playground will be a place where children of all abilities can play together, learn from nature and make lasting memories — a perfect way to celebrate 100 years of Kiwanis service to Waynesboro.”

ICYMI

• Waynesboro: Kiwanis Club announces $50K contribution toward nature playground
• Waynesboro | Accessible playground project just $18K shy of fundraising goal
• Waynesboro: Kiwanis Club announces plans for $175K Greenway playground

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held on Dec. 9 at 4 p.m. in the Loth Springs area of the South River Greenway. Construction will begin on the playground in the spring.

“This playground represents what Kiwanis is all about — community, inclusion and creating opportunities for every child,” said Samantha Bosserman, Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro member.

“Reaching our fundraising goal shows just how much our community believes in giving all children the chance to play and explore together.”

The Kiwanis Club of Waynesboro was founded in 1925 and meets at noon on the first and third Tuesday of each month at Panera Bread.