Christmas came early for LEO’s Haven this year. The Santa Cruz Playground Project and County of Santa Cruz announced a major step forward in fundraising for LEO’s Haven.
The Monterey Peninsula Foundation, a community-focused grant-making organization that hosts the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament, has pledged $250,000 toward an all-inclusive playground planned for Chanticleer Park in Live Oak, the first in Santa Cruz County committed to children of all abilities.
“Every child deserves the chance to play and learn together,” said Patricia Potts, a local parent and co-founder of the Santa Cruz Playground Project. “Thanks to the generosity of the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and all of our supporters, we are getting closer to making that dream a reality.”
The Monterey Peninsula Foundation grant represents a major step toward LEO’s Haven’s nearly $2 million fundraising goal. To recognize the group’s contribution and encourage further public participation, the County of Santa Cruz is pledging to match upcoming contributions up to $250,000. To become a supporter, you can make a donation at http://www.santacruzplaygroundproject.org/donate.
“It’s rare that you see a community come together in the way that the Central Coast has for this project,” Supervisor John Leopold said. “Once completed, LEO’s Haven will be a lasting testament to inclusiveness and a statement that in Santa Cruz County, no one is excluded from opportunity.”
With the support of partners Shane’s Inspiration, the Chanticleer Park Neighbors Association and the County, LEO’s Haven would provide interactive and sensory-rich experiences for children ages 0-5 and 6-12. Playground designs include a sensory touch wall, replica farmer’s market, “wee-saw,” accessible and traditional swings and slides from which to descend from the playground’s multi-level barn structure.
To date, numerous individuals, business and community groups have committed to helping fund LEO’s Haven. They include the Santa Cruz Warriors, Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County, local Rotary and Lions clubs and many more. For a complete list, visit www.santacruzplaygroundproject.org/our-community-supporters.
— Tricia Potts, Founder, Santa Cruz Playground Project