KOLD News 13 Reporter, Suleika Acosta
April 19, 2008

Kids at a local school are getting a new playground thanks to the help of volunteers. Since Robison Elementary was built back in the 1950's, one thing has been missing from the playground: a place for special needs students.

Saturday, 200 volunteers came together to create a new playground where more than 30 special needs kids and their school mates can play.

"Previously we had some older steel equipment which was very nostalgic but it really wasn't child safe," says Principal Robert Pitts.

It's all part of a project by the Tucson Orthopaedic Institute to help prevent playground injuries.

"A lot of schools just got rid of their playgrounds because of liability issues and now we're coming back and saying we can build something that balances safety versus activity and childhood safety is a big deal," says Dr. Larry Housman, with the Orthopaedic Institute.

Volunteers helped raise $100,000 for the new equipment and students from Robison helped design the playground that's more than just slides and swings. It includes a climbing wall and wheel chair accessible equipment.

"What this will do is give them access to the playground equipment in a way they haven't had before," says Pitts.

Anthony is a third grader at Robison with one word to describe how he feels about the new playground.

"Happy."

His mom, Brandy, took the day off to help build the playground her son and his classmates will enjoy.

"I can't wait to hear his stories about when he's playing and how much fun he has," says Brandy Leroy.

Volunteers like Melissa Johnson are happy to help build a neighborhood jewel that will give kids a place to shine, no matter who they are.

"It makes me feel good that I could be out here to help not just with my daughter but with everybody and anybody that will be able to utilize the playground," says Melissa.

This is the fourth playground the Tucson Orthopedic Institute has helped put together.

Copyright 2008 KOLD, Photos Copyright 2008 TOI.