The American Water Charitable Foundation (AWCF) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) recently announced recipients of the 2021 Building Better Communities grant program.

The grants, totaling $500,000, were given to the City of Imperial Beach, California, and the City of Lexington, Kentucky.

 
"We are pleased to partner with the cities of Imperial Beach and Lexington to provide equitable and accessible water-based play spaces so children and families can learn, interact and appreciate water, a critical natural resource, in a fun and engaging way," said Carrie Williams, president, American Water Charitable Foundation. "Through our work, we have found that splash pads are a wonderful way to ensure water access for all while supporting our conservation focus and engaging community members in environmental education."

The City of Imperial Beach, California, will use their $250,000 grant to build an all-inclusive splash pad at Veteran's Park. Veteran's Park will feature a free, family-friendly splash pad experience that is both accommodating and sustainable. This border community has suffered water pollution due to the Tijuana River which has affected beach water quality.

The City of Lexington, Kentucky, will use their $250,000 grant to create an inclusive splash pad and water play area. The splash pad will be in the historic Charles Young Park, an area which is in a predominately African American community, where people lack access to water-based and nature-based play.

"Ensuring children and families can experience water and have access to water-based education and nature play spaces is key to building the next generation of environmental stewards," said Kellie May, NRPA vice president, programs and partnerships. "We are proud to support this important work through our partnership with the American Water Charitable Foundation and encourage communities everywhere to explore the wonders of nature through their local parks and recreation."


https://www.nrpa.org/about-national-recreation-and-park-association/press-room/american-water-charitable-foundation-and-nrpa-award-$500000-for-water-inspired-play-spaces/