Build-A-Bear Workshop-United States: KaBOOM

Build-A-Bear Workshop partnered with the national non-profit KaBOOM! to create 10 pawsome playspaces for kids across the country. Together, we can create healthier, happier kids and stronger, more united communities through the power of play.

What is KaBOOM!?

KaBOOM! is a national nonprofit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. Over the past decade, KaBOOM! has used its innovative community-build model to bring together business and community interests to construct over 1,100 new playgrounds, skateparks, sports fields and ice rinks across America. KaBOOM! also offers a variety of resources, including a web portal and online community, regional and national trainings, grants and publications for communities that wish to plan a new playspace on their own. Headquartered in Washington, D.C. , KaBOOM! also has offices in Chicago, Atlanta and San Mateo . For more information, visit www.kaboom.org.

What does "community-build" mean?

"Community-build" means that a group of local citizens, usually organized as a parent committee, takes the lead in initiating and planning a project to benefit the whole community. It means that local volunteers help to prepare the site and install the playspace, and it means that community residents are active in the design process. Finally, decisions about safety and usage lie in the hands of the community that will use and maintain the playspace.

Why build in a day?

KaBOOM! builds its playspaces in one day. That's right, one day – just six to eight hours to assemble equipment, haul safety surfacing, mix concrete and cut the ribbon! (Of course, this requires a lot of planning and some advance site preparation.) It's easiest to get people to commit to volunteering for a single day. Who wouldn't want to give up a day for their community when there’s free food? The sheer ambition of a one-day project will pique interest and draw curious onlookers!

Columbus, OH

Pittsburgh, PA

Seattle, WA

Houston, TX

Toronto, Ontario

KaBOOM! is a national non-profit organization whose goal is to create a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. Since 1995, they have held nearly 1,000 community builds of playgrounds, skateparks and fields – giving thousands of kids places to play in their communities.

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