Windsor pushes for inclusion through new playground swing

The Windsor recreation department gives another push forward on the principle of inclusion by fundraising to gain a new piece of equipment for Elmcroft Playground.

Home Hardware at the Fort Edward Mall will be the location of a hotdog barbecue stand June 28 to help raise the $500 needed to purchase a swing designed to hold those with physical disabilities. Sobeys volunteered to donate the hotdogs for the event.

Coordinator Laura McCarthy, who is with the Windsor Day Camp, said that when she saw the swing in a magazine it just popped out. “It’s important to keep an open mind,” she said.

Aquatics manager Brettanie Deal-Porter noted she and McCarthy approached recreation programmer Jim Lambert about the swing they thought it would be a beneficial piece of equipment.

It helps create more equal opportunities and brings about awareness, Deal-Porter said.

“I would hope it creates a snowball effect in other communities, too.”

Lambert was excited when approached by the two staff members about the idea of adding a handicap swing to the playground.

Using a swinging sounds like such a simple thing, but it may mean volumes to someone in a wheelchair who’s never done it before, Lambert said. “If I see just one person use the swing I’ll be happy because it’s a one time opportunity that child didn’t have before.”

Windsor is an inclusive town, supporting programs aimed to ensure everyone can be involved in recreational activities, Lambert said. “These programs are breaking barriers in the community… I think people can realize the town cares about all its citizens.”

The swing will function by strapping around a person to allow them to remain supported and secure while swinging. It’s expected to be installed and ready to ride for this summer.

Roseanna Boyd says the swing would be great for her son, Jordan Stephens, who has cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair. He can’t swing on an average swing, she said.

Jordan has learned so much socially and independently through recreation, Boyd said. “He can just be a kid…. I think they (the Windsor recreation department) are doing an awesome job… and I’m very excited for the swing.”