The playground in Underwood, originally donated to the UPRD in 2013, has served as a cornerstone for local families, renters, and visitors from neighboring towns for over a decade. Its location, tucked away from main roads and surrounded by fencing, offers a quiet and safe space for children to play. However, as the years have passed, the playground has begun to show signs of wear and is no longer fully meeting the needs of our growing community. After much consideration, Friends of Underwood, along with the community, voted to replace the aging playground with two brand-new playgrounds, providing a modern and vibrant space for children to enjoy.

The cost for the entire project is estimated at $120,000. Through the hard work and generosity of the community, we have already raised $7,000, and we were fortunate to receive a significant donation of $50,000 from an incredibly generous donor. This has allowed us to take critical steps forward, including ordering one of the two playgrounds designed for children aged 2-5. However, there is still much to be done. We need additional funding to order the second playground, which will be geared toward children aged 5-12, as well as to purchase the necessary ground cover and complete other essential tasks to bring this project to life.

In early 2024, a dedicated committee was formed to spearhead this effort. Initially, a small group of passionate individuals, the committee quickly grew as more members of the community became involved. Many of the original members were already part of Friends of Underwood, and as the project evolved, the committee was formally absorbed into the organization. This merging of efforts allowed for better coordination and planning, ensuring that every aspect of the project could move forward smoothly.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this project is the level of community involvement. Volunteers from the Underwood area have stepped up to assist in every phase of the process. Local residents have committed their time and energy to help with the excavation of the playground site and the breakdown of the old equipment, saving significant costs. Additionally, once the new playground equipment arrives, community members will assist with the installation. These efforts will not only help reduce expenses but also reinforce the sense of ownership and pride that everyone in Underwood feels for this space.

Our plan is to break ground in the spring of 2025, when the weather is favorable, and the community can once again come together to bring this vision to life. The project will transform the existing playground into two distinct areas: one playground designed specifically for younger children aged 2-5, and another for children aged 5-12. These two playgrounds will offer more variety and ensure that children of all ages have access to safe, fun, and developmentally appropriate play spaces.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! In addition to the playgrounds, we are planning several other fun add-ons to enhance the overall experience. These additions, which will be announced next year once finalized, are sure to make the playground a destination for families throughout the area. We’re excited about the future of this project and how it will benefit not just Underwood but also surrounding communities.

All of these achievements and plans are a direct result of the unwavering support of the Underwood community. From financial contributions to volunteering time, the people of Underwood have come together to create something truly special. The new playgrounds will not only serve as a place for children to play but will also stand as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the shared goal of building a better future for our families.

With the help of everyone involved, we are confident that we will reach our fundraising goals and complete this project, bringing joy and fun to the children of Underwood for years to come. We invite you to join us in this exciting effort as we work together to make this vision a reality. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your support makes all the difference in creating a brighter, more playful future for our community!