The Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) announced new funding aimed at creating more inclusive parks and playgrounds in communities across Tennessee.
The department is providing up to $500,000 to local communities or nonprofit organizations to create inclusive parks, playgrounds, and other facilities. The goal is to provide opportunities for children and adults with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities to experience the physical, social, and emotional benefits of play alongside their peers without disabilities.
“I am proud to live in a community with an inclusive playground and have seen firsthand how it benefits my daughter and her friends,” said DIDD Commissioner Brad Turner, who lives in Smyrna. “I’m excited to be able to provide the opportunity of inclusive play to more children and families across the state.”
Applicants should be government entities or 501(c)(3) nonprofit agencies, and all proposals should be open to the community, rooted in family involvement, community engagement, inclusion, and empowerment.
DIDD has $2.5 million in funding for this grant program. It is accepting applications for funding until June 19, 2023.
More information and the application process can be found here: https://www.tn.gov/didd/forconsumers/inclusive-playground-and-facility-grant.html
B-Roll of children with and without disabilities playing together at the inclusive playground in Brentwood, TN: https://youtu.be/WWsOWqLDdIM
