FORT PAYNE, Ala. - Every inclusive playground begins the same way. With one person. One parent who notices their child sitting on the sidelines at recess. One teacher who believes every student deserves to play together. One parks professional who asks a different question. One community member who refuses to accept that "good enough" is good enough.

GameTime is celebrating those everyday advocates through its new "Be The One" campaign, a national initiative designed to recognize the people who spark meaningful change and inspire more communities to create inclusive places where children of all abilities can play, learn, and belong.

At the heart of the campaign are the stories of real people whose voices changed their communities. Among them is Mayli, a student from Weatherford, Texas, whose experience at recess inspired her family to advocate for an inclusive playground where every child could participate. Her story - along with those of accessibility leader Bill Botten and Ability Center founder Damian Buchman - demonstrates a simple truth: when communities design for one person who has been left out, everyone benefits.

 

"Every community has someone who notices when a child isn't included," said Kent Callison, Director of Marketing for GameTime. "Our hope is that 'Be The One' encourages those advocates to speak up, because we've seen firsthand how one conversation can become a project, and one project can change a community for generations."

The campaign invites educators, parks and recreation professionals, parents, community leaders, and residents to nominate the people making a difference in their own communities. Visitors can explore real stories, download inclusive play resources, nominate local advocates, and connect with design experts to begin planning their own projects and turn ideas into action.

To help communities move from inspiration to implementation, GameTime is also highlighting its annual Playground Grant Program, which provides matching funds to help schools, parks, and municipalities build new playgrounds and inclusive play environments. Eligible organizations may receive significant matching funds to help make projects possible that otherwise may have remained out of reach.

"We know funding is often the biggest obstacle," Callison said. "The stories in this campaign prove what's possible when someone chooses to advocate. The Playground Grant helps communities take that next step."

Communities interested in learning more, nominating an advocate, or applying for funding can visit GameTime.com/One to explore stories, download the Inclusive Play Guide, and begin planning a project that creates opportunities for every child.

To see more products from GameTime on LADetails, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/ladetails/landscape-supplier/gametime