Rainbow Connection Pledges Support to Tuscora Park Inclusive Playground Project

The Tuscarawas Society for Children & Adults, Inc. (better known as Rainbow Connection), pledged upto $100,000 of support for the construction of an inclusive playground at New Philadelphia’s Tuscora Park.

“Our organization is committed to providing accessible ground surface for this worthwhile project,” Executive Director Perci Garner said. “Poured rubber surface will not only allow disabled children to access the playground but will also allow handicapped caretakers to supervise children directly.”

“We do our best to avoid brick-and-mortar capital improvement projects, but accessibility expenses often fall under our guidelines,” Garner said. Rainbow Connection recently provided the handicapped door buttons at Tuscarawas County Public Libraries, the new ADA-compliant train at Tuscora Park, funding toward the accessible playgrounds at Starlight Schools and the Tuscarawas County YMCA, and numerous other community projects.

A Facebook page dedicated to the inclusive playground project states: “Currently there is a cement ramp to the playground; however, the ground is covered with mulch. Mulch is a barrier to those with assistive devices. Across all playgrounds at Tuscora Park, there is currently only one swing intended for those with a disability. By removing the old mulch and replacing it with a poured rubber surface, the space will be safe and fun for everyone.” 

The City of New Philadelphia and the Tuscora Park Foundation are soliciting public support for the project. Donations can be made by check to The Tuscora Park Foundation, 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663. Please include ‘playground’ in the memo line.

At the Rainbow Connection’s June board meeting, the board approved $14,627.77 of assistance to local residents and schools. The organization has awarded $106,106.50 of the $352,503.13 raised at its March 2025 Telethon.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with health or medical expenses, visit tuscrainbow.org or call 330.343.8686 to apply.