Physical Therapist Haley Miner (center rear) and Physical Education Instructor Brett Rhodes (right rear) with some of the Benedictine students who will benefit from the new playground's improved accessibility, safety and effectiveness for physical exercise. Benedictine is grateful to Ronald MacDonald House Charities for their support of the "Play to Grow" Project. |
Benedictine Awarded |
The Benedictine School has been chosen to receive a grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore, Inc. The award, for Benedictine’s “Play to Grow” project, is specifically designated to refurbishing the playground. Benedictine’s professional staff was instrumental in writing the proposal, another way the nationally recognized school improves the lives of children with developmental disabilities. This grant is one of two that were applied for and received by Benedictine.
Sister Jeannette explained, “Our current playground no longer meets the needs of the kids we serve today; we really need the very latest and best to provide safe and effective play for our students. We are caring for children with even greater disabilities than ever before,” she continued, “so it is wonderful that our staff is devoted and proactive enough to make this happen.” Input from Clinical Coordinator Judi Cornette, Physical Education Instructor Brett Rhodes, and Physical Therapist Haley Miner was vital to the grant application.
The grant will allow Benedictine to replace the existing mulch with a specially designed rubberized material that is much safer for the students and less costly to maintain, and replace the current playground equipment with updated pieces specifically designed for students with special needs. The new equipment will provide more opportunities to build strength, balance, coordination, and social skills, transforming play into beneficial therapy.
Benedictine is very grateful to Ronald McDonald House Charities for this grant, and to the staff members who created such an effective and successful proposal.