Orono school home to new universally designed playground equipment provided by Pine Tree Society

Bath, Maine - Asa C. Adams School in Orono is the new home to a unique piece of playground equipment.  The universally designed John Deere tractor was constructed with care by The Kids’ Project volunteer woodworker Clyde Ricker.  The tractor, complete with the signature John Deere green and yellow colors, was designed to provide hours of fun for children of all abilities.

The Kids’ Project, Pine Tree Society’s adaptive equipment program, raffled the piece of playground equipment at the Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities conference that took place earlier in the summer. 

According to Sharon Brady, Director of Special Services of Union #87, the students are thrilled with the addition to their playground.

“Your generosity will make an immediate difference in the lives of students at Asa C. Adams School,” she said.  “Thank you again for your kind and generous donation.  Kids will enjoy it for years to come!!”

The Kids’ Project adaptive equipment program offers custom designed universally accessible playground equipment.  Over the past three years, the program has provided a number of unique pieces of playground equipment for schools in Scarborough, Augusta and Georgetown. 

Like The Kids’ Project adaptive equipment, the playground equipment is made with care by highly skilled volunteer woodworkers committed to Maine children with disabilities.  Playground equipment has included a lobster boat, a train and firetruck.

According to The Kids’ Project director, Jeremy Lucas, the need for this type of equipment is growing.

“Schools are really seeing the need to make their playground an accessible place for all students,” he said.  “For The Kids’ Project it’s a unique opportunity because the piece benefits children with and without disabilities offering opportunities for exercise and play while promoting social interaction.”

The Kids' Project helps children with special needs experience success by providing affordable high-quality, adaptive equipment constructed by talented volunteer woodworkers and upholsterers.  The classroom, therapy room, seating and positioning and custom equipment are provided at 40 to 75 percent less than commercially available equipment. 

Pine Tree Society helps people in Maine with disabilities lead richer, more socially connected lives.  We share a spirit of innovation and desire to discover new ways to break down barriers that many find insurmountable. It started as a bold new idea in 1936 and it continues every day.  Whether it’s a child discovering her first best friend at Pine Tree Camp or an adult finding his voice with customized assistive technology, Pine Tree Society changes lives.

For more information, please call (207) 443-3341 or www.pinetreesociety.org.

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