The Optimist Club of Sydenham and District along with their Junior Optimist counterparts maintained a positive outlook throughout the pandemic, and now the community will benefit. The main part of the Inclusive Playground has been installed at Hibou Conservation Area and is open for use. There are still some features to be added, including benches and a permanent sign recognizing the Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsors. Communication Boards donated by Families for Autism just arrived and the club is super excited to install them! In a few weeks, some additional inclusive play equipment will be in place.

The idea to put a playground at Hibou Conservation Area was discussed at a meeting of the Optimist Club of Sydenham and District in January, 2020. A partnership with Grey Sauble Conservation Authority took shape, with the expectation it would take a few years to raise the necessary funds. The project gained momentum when the adult Club formed the Owen Sound and District Junior Optimist Club. These Clubs were not deterred by the pandemic and the need to rethink all of their usual approaches to fundraising. Paint parties and yard sales were replaced with bottle drives and online perennial plant sales. Hundreds of pizzas were sold to friends and colleagues of Club members. Pick up of Christmas wreaths, boughs and holiday crafts had to be arranged with Covid precautions in mind. The Club organized their first Virtual Hike fundraiser. A mail out to residents in the general neighbourhood of the playground resulted in numerous contributions. Junior Club members provided new creativity and inspiration to the adult club, along with several new adult Club members.

In addition to Club led fundraisers, area businesses contributed at Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsor levels. Community grants were obtained and local unions with connections to Club members gave generously. A donation in kind from Walker for the excavation and site preparation was invaluable. A ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening is in the planning stages, with the hope to recognize all of these sponsors in person if pandemic restrictions allow.

The Optimist Club members have been overwhelmed with the community support for this much anticipated addition to the beautiful property at Hibou Conservation Area. Most of the needed funds have been raised, surpassing all expectations, and its time to enjoy the playground! The Optimists wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of the individuals, groups and businesses who joined in their Optimism to make this dream come true!

source: media release, Optimist Club of Sydenham and District