Many children living in Reno and Sparks do not have a playground that is handicapped accessible, so the Junior League of Reno is teaming with the City of Reno to retrofit the playground at Dick Taylor Park to make it user friendly for everyone.

Just because a park meets the American Disability Act Standards doesn't mean the playground equipment provides equal or safe access for people with disabilities. The Junior League of Reno is asking for the community's help coming up with the funds to create a universally accessible playground.

Jonah Vandver is 11 years old, and says he and some of his friends have trouble climbing on things at playgrounds. Kids like Jonah
who face these types of challenges on playground equipment is because they're built for children without physical or neurological disabilities. Children with disabilities are at a disadvantage playing side by side their friends who don't face the same obstacles.

The playground at Dick Taylor Park will be remodeled so all children and people with disabilities can enjoy it. The cost to retrofit the playground is about $250,000s. Under the agreement with the city, the Junior League of Reno is responsible for raising the money, and the City of Reno is responsible for playground design and construction. So far, only a third of the funds have been raised. If you'd like more information, or to make a tax deductible donation to the universally accessible playground, visit www.jlreno.org