Volunteers from UALR’s University District, Children International, the campus community, and 150 associates from Home Depot recently gathered at Bale Elementary School to transform a patch of scrubby ground into a vibrant playground and neighborhood gathering place. The volunteers were helped by a $57,400 grant from the Home Depot Foundation and a $10,000 contribution from the Little Rock School District.

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“The project brought more than 200 community volunteers onto the school ground, giving them an up close view of the school,” said Ron Copeland, director of the University District that is helping revitalize UALR’s part of midtown Little Rock. UALR has embraced Bale Elementary and its students through several outreach programs, including UALR Children International and its dental clinic.

The project was an urban twist on the old-fashioned barn raising. Construction and assembly began at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, April 24, and organizers opened the new playground with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3:30 p.m.

The Home Depot Foundation is a founding member of KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. KaBOOM! has been credited for using its community-build model to bring together business and community interests to construct new playgrounds, skate parks, sports fields, and ice rinks across North America.

“Oh, my gosh, what a miracle this playground is for our children!” said Barbara Anderson, principal of Bale Elementary. “Parents tell me the kids can’t talk about anything else but the fun they are having on the playground. Teachers are excited because for the first time the kids gave a fun, safe place to play. We are so grateful to Kaboom, Home Depot and the hundreds of volunteers who made this dream playground a reality.”