Dreamcatcher Playground Foundation

Founded October 1999, the initial intent of the Dreamcatcher Playground was to meet the needs of children with disabilities on the school playground. During research and planning, it became obvious that the need was greater than integrating children with disabilities during recess, and the focus shifted to include all of Eastern Oklahoma County and beyond. Dreamcatcher Playground became a school/community project, building a universally-accessible playground where barriers are erased and a safe, fun, educational environment for play and interaction could be created for children and adults with ALL abilities. Phases I and II of this $595,000 playground were constructed by a community of volunteers during the past two years. The next phases will triple the size of the current play structure, add a pre-school play structure, family picnic areas, dramatic play area, and a new structure called EVOS, all at a cost of $429,000. Great care has been given to allow wheelchair access to play structures, surrounding areas, and to provide transfer stations for those wishing to leave their wheelchairs to climb onto the structure. The surfacing under the structures is wheelchair and walker friendly, and the entrance to the play area is totally accessible. Our dream is to complete this playground, where barriers are erased, turning them into smiles and laughter of ALL children playing together.
The mission of Dreamcatcher Playground is to promote physical, social, and emotional development of ALL children, regardless of ability or disability, by providing a stimulating, challenging playground, where barriers are erased, replacing them with smiles, laughter, and play. Initially the intent of Dreamcatcher Playground was to meet the needs of children with disabilities on the school playground. As a result of research and planning beginning in October 1999, it became obvious that the need was greater and the focus shifted to include all of the Oklahoma City area. Throughout 2000, significant time and attention focused on research and design. Our 'dream' was officially launched February 2001and fundraising initiated. Phase I ($108,625) was constructed by volunteers in October 2004. Phase II ($80,301) was completed in September 2006. We are now raising money for Phase III for construction in Fall 2009. Dreamcatcher Playground provides a safe and fun environment where children with disabilities are stimulated and challenged on equipment suited for their physical needs, and are able to interact and play with physically-able children, forging friendships and acceptance.