Community Build Playgrounds, Get Organized

Organizing a community build playground project can seem overwhelming.  However, if you break it down into smaller tasks, it can easily be manageable.  Here are some basic steps you can implement in the planning and building of your new playground:

Get Organized With Support From the Community

Before you can design and install a community build playground, you need community support for your plans. This requires several steps:

Identify key stakeholders. These are the youth, parents, municipal or school personnel and childcare providers who will most directly benefit from the playground project.

Target potential supporters. These could be PTA's or PTOs, neighborhood associations, service clubs, local government agencies, religious groups, trade unions and local news media.

Invite participation. Schedule meetings with stakeholders and potential stakeholders, approach community organizations, solicit help from local businesses and inform the news media of your plans. Notify local residents about the project to solicit additional help.

Get Organized

Create task groups: Create groups to focus on specific tasks such as: site design, equipment layout and design, recruiting construction volunteers, tools and materials needed, fundraising, grant writing, site preparation, playground installation, food and refreshments for your volunteers and the grand opening event.

Appoint task group leaders, and then have the team leaders elect an overall project leader.

Kickoff your project with all team members together to build enthusiasm for the project.


Go to the next step:  Create a Community Build Plan

---

Click to Enlarge