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Construction of a $400,000 community playground at Haverhill’s Golden Hill Elementary School could begin next month if organizers can get 815 volunteers to help build it.
The playground, brainchild of Brittany Safy, is intended to serve Golden Hill students during the school day and provide a community gathering space for families during non-school hours. As WHAV reported at the time, the project began to take shape last winter.
“This incredible project has relied on parents who won’t give up, raised the money and are very close to realizing their vision for our kids. Now we need volunteers who can help be a part of something special. Signing up to be a volunteer means you’ll have your sweat and energy etched into Haverhill’s history. You’ll be a part of the story behind every kid and family that gets to enjoy this playground. Sign up today!” says state Rep. Andy X. Vargas.
Of the needed 815 volunteer slots, nearly 200 are filled, or 25% of the goal. The playground will be built starting Tuesday, Oct. 20, and continuing through Sunday, Oct. 25. While construction skills are useful, organizers say, volunteers are also needed to provide food for builders, assist with childcare for any young children present and be the hands to help with many required tasks. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, with the exception of a Family Build Night Friday, Oct. 23, from 5-8 p.m.
“This shows what Haverhill can do when people come together and invest in something positive for our kids. Even as little as four hours for one shift can make an impact.” adds Safy, who serves as general coordinator of the Haverhill Playground Committee. “It will take all of us.”
Organizers say, a playground designer from Play By Design visited local classrooms, spoke with students and collected their hand-drawn “dream playground” designs, which helped inspire the final concept. The design includes multi-level castle towers, accessible ramps, climbing structures, sensory play areas, swings, and shaded gathering spaces.
“This new, accessible playground at Golden Hill School will be a gift to our community that touches the lives of generations to come—what better way to show up for Haverhill than to contribute to this project by showing up to build it?” says Ward 3 City Councilor Devan M. Ferreira.
Volunteers may sign up at haverhillcommunityplay.com/volunteer. Donate are also accepted are also accepted at the website.