New York, NY -- Let All the Children Play Foundation (LATCP), a not-for-profit charitable foundation that promotes inclusion through sport and play of children with disabilities and their able-bodied peers, Tiki Recreation, founded by businessman, broadcaster, philanthropist and former NFL star Tiki Barber, and KOMPAN Playgrounds, the world's largest builder of playground equipment, today announced a partnership to build playgrounds and create integrated programs throughout the northeast for children of diverse abilities. The partnership will begin in early 2010 in Eisenhower Park in Long Island, New York and will be expanded into other locations throughout the year.
"We are proud to join with Let All The Children Play in this partnership to foster a positive experience for all young people," said Barber. "TikiRec was founded on the principle of creating a safe, fun, healthy and educational experience for children, and this partnership will help us both grow and assist children at a much faster pace."
"This partnership brings together three great organizations with a similar vision, and we look forward to doing great things with Tiki Recreation and Kompan" said Michael Alon, LATCP's Founder. "The development of accessible playgrounds and inclusive programs will help all children, those with or without disabilities. This partnership gives LATCP the best opportunity to help typical children develop leadership skills and compassion while educating and inspiring all children about friendship and acceptance", said David Weingarten, LATCP's Executive Director
Tom Grover, President of KOMPAN, Inc. stated, "At KOMPAN, we believe children of all abilities have a right to play and we're excited to be a part of this groundbreaking effort to address a critical need. This remarkable partnership brings together the resources and knowledge that will make a real difference in the lives of children."
The first joint project will be built on a two acre site at Eisenhower Park, in Long Island's Nassau County, to be opened in 2010. The state-of-the art facility will also have programs which will foster a truly integrated environment that will allow children of all abilities to play side-by-side. The playground site is being spearheaded by LATCP and developed in partnership with Nassau County government, with funding for the $1.3 million project largely financed through the voter-approved Nassau County Environmental Bond Act of 2006 in addition to private donations. The Eisenhower Park project in addition to future projects will combine Barber's message to children of "Playing Proud" (building self-esteem and resolving conflict through interaction in a playground setting) and LATCP's message of having children of all abilities play and work together in the same environment.
About Let All The Children Play
LATCP envisions the playground to be a fun, unique and safe environment for regular interaction and gatherings, thus inspiring the development of a "play" community. Beyond the building of this playground, LATCP aims to make an even greater impact: breaking down barriers for children with disabilities, creating social change, and helping to improve the lives of all children and members of the community. By leveraging the fun, inclusive, and team-building nature of play, along with its universal applications, LATCP will create consistent programming to take place at the playground and surrounding sites, building upon five key pillars: Education, Aspiration, Change, Community, and Empowerment. For more information on Let All the Children Play Foundation, please visit our website at www.LATCP.org.
About Tiki Recreation
Tiki Barber founded Tiki Recreation to help promote fitness in children by giving them meaningful and rewarding play experiences. By designing and developing unique areas for active play, Tiki Recreation has established itself as a leader in promoting and sustaining healthy, active lifestyles for all members of the community. The positive impact of Tiki Recreation's Play Proud™ philosophy can be seen in every recreation area they develop, making a real difference for people regardless of income level, geographic location, or physical ability. Go to www.tikirecreation.com to find out more.
About KOMPAN
KOMPAN, Inc. is the world leader in the design and manufacture of commercial playgrounds. KOMPAN specializes in designing innovative, age-appropriate, and inclusive playground equipment that challenges and inspires children and adults of all abilities. KOMPAN's award-winning play solutions span every age group and provide communities around the globe with complete recreation solutions. For more information on KOMPAN, please visit our website at
www.kompan.com.
