Since 1998, the Miracle League has been committed to providing opportunities for children with disabilities to play baseball and simply be a kid. With the help of dedicated supporters, volunteers and staff, Douglas-Coffee County is going to be adding their own branch of the Miracle League. To make their vision a reality, the county wants to add an inclusive playground where children of all backgrounds can play together.
The new Miracle League of Douglas-Coffee County (MLDC) will remove barriers that keep individuals with mental and physical disabilities off of the baseball diamond. This will allow them to experience the joy of participating in the game while making friends, building self-esteem and being treated equally with other athletes.
As well as providing opportunities through baseball and promoting community support of Miracle Leagues, the organization also works to promote the construction of special facilities that meet the unique needs of Miracle League players and their families. “We aspire to create a place that goes beyond minimum accessibility to create play experiences that meet a variety of needs and interests,” said Stevie Young, the City of Douglas Recreation Director. An inclusive playground would encourage such an environment.
To afford the significant costs of planning and constructing the new playground, the MLDC has established an online fundraiser through RedBasket.org. They hope to raise $19,280. Meeting their goal will allow the MLDC to create a universally-designed, sensory-rich environment that encourages children to develop physically, socially, and emotionally.
The Miracle League of Douglas-Coffee County’s fundraiser will be online through Jan. 13. Learn more or make a tax-deductible donation at https://redbasket.org/1550/miracle-league-of-douglas-coffee-county.