City of Wooster installs new communication boards in local parks to foster inclusive play

The City of Wooster is installing new communication boards in two local parks, aiming to enhance accessibility and inclusion for all visitors. The community is invited to attend a ribbon cutting Friday, Oct. 17 at 3 p.m. at the Christmas Run Park playground located on Park Avenue in Wooster.

This community-driven initiative started with a conversation with Stacey Everhart, a Wooster mother, and grew into a collaborative effort between the City of Wooster Parks and Recreation Department, PRC-Saltillo and Include-Ability.

“My son was born with childhood apraxia of speech," Everhart said. "He was nonverbal until he was 3, and I noticed he began not wanting to play in the parks of Wooster. Our family learned sign language at home to communicate, but then he wasn't able to talk to kids his age. I began emailing the City of Wooster and PRC-Saltillo to see if we could make communication boards in parks so everyone can have a way to communicate.

"I am so thankful for all the support from everybody, and I am so excited to see these help kids and adults.”

The communication boards provide visual symbols assisting individuals with speech or language challenges to express themselves and connect with others during play. Boards are currently at Christmas Run Park and Freedlander Park, with installation at Jaycee Park, Clear Creek Valley Park and Schellin Park coming soon.

“When Stacey first reached out in March 2024, I immediately understood the importance and impact these communication boards could have on our community,” said Joe Avila, parks supervisor for the City of Wooster. “Being open-minded to the degree of need they bring was essential, not just for Wesley, but for every child who may struggle to express themselves. As a father of a child with disabilities, I know firsthand how vital it is to make life easier and more accessible for our kids.

"What has truly touched me is the way our community came together to make this possible. Having lived in Wooster my entire life, I’m deeply grateful to be part of a city that continues to show such compassion, unity and willingness to support one another. Stacey’s dedication and vision are inspiring, and I’m honored to help facilitate this project in every way I can.”

This project was made possible thanks to the sponsorship of Dan and Tina Oliver, Global Body (Scott Gatchall), Jeff Musselman, The Eagles, The Hope Center, Mariola Italian, Modern Woodsman, Oma Gourd Handcrafted Tacos (Justin Mullis), PRC-Saltillo and additional anonymous donors. The boards were designed by PRC-Saltillo and crafted by Sign Design Wooster Inc.