Young Advocate Champions Inclusive Playground for All

Amelia Burbank, a determined 10-year-old, stands by a simple goal. “I want to help,” she declared. For over a year, Amelia championed the cause of making Schilling Elementary School’s playground in Homer Glen more accessible to children with disabilities. As a fourth-grade student, she observed that children, especially those using wheelchairs, could feel left out during recess. This observation motivated her to initiate changes that would allow everyone to join in the fun.

Amelia, with her family’s support, organized the ‘Amelia’s Act of Kindness Yard Sale’ last May at Heritage Park. They partnered with the Homer Glen’s Ability Awareness Committee, which supports individuals with different abilities. Their efforts included participating in the activities at the previous year’s HomerFest. Furthermore, a relative in Arizona helped by promoting the fundraiser on his radio show, drawing donations from states like California, Nevada, and Arizona. Altogether, Amelia’s efforts brought in more than $11,000 for new playground equipment, celebrated during the school’s fourth-grade farewell party.

Their timing was impeccable. Principal Candis Gasa noted that the Homer Elementary School District 33C was already planning to swap its mulch for more accessible wheelchair-friendly turf. The Schilling Parent-Teacher Organization also contributed $25,000. The new turf ensures playground access even in colder months when ground conditions typically worsen.

During the farewell party, Gasa presented Amelia with a heart-shaped wand, commending her magical contributions. Students now play on the updated, inclusive playground. The improvements were extensive, with costs exceeding $250,000, incorporating PTO and district funds alongside Amelia’s fundraising. Enhancements included a new drainage system, turf, a handicapped-accessible apron, a rock climbing structure, and musical instruments to enrich the sensory play experience.

Amelia’s fundraising helped introduce the new Gaga Ball Pit, an inclusive dodge-ball game area. Described by the manufacturer as a way to ensure equitable play, the pit has become a community hit. “A lot of people are using it,” stated Amelia. “It will help the community and make kids feel included.” Initially considering a versatile basketball system, cost challenges shifted her focus, providing practical lessons on bringing ideas to life, as shared by her mom, Kim Burbank.

Friend and fundraising partner, Georgia McGoldrick, also ten years old, shared Amelia’s commendable vision. “Inclusiveness matters to me for all children,” expressed Melissa Chandarana, District 33C board member and a parent of a child with different abilities. “Our district is making strides in making all playgrounds accessible.”

Karen R. Adamczyk, co-chair of the village’s Ability Awareness Committee, was inspired by Amelia’s presentations and enthusiasm. Reflecting on past attitudes, Adamczyk, a retired school social worker, highlighted the cultural shift towards inclusiveness. “They are kids first,” she noted. “They want to be with their friends.”

Carly Bos, whose son Nolan experiences developmental delays, praised the efforts. “Amelia is thinking of other kiddos like him,” she acknowledged. Principal Gasa emphasized the school’s focus on community and inclusion, preparing students to become world-changing citizens.