KaBOOM Playground Build with Let’s Play in New Orleans

In mid-April I attended the Mom 2.0 Summit in New Orleans.  In the middle of the conference I was given the opportunity to volunteer to take part in the Mom 2 Summit Service Project, the highlight of my trip.  On Saturday afternoon two bus loads of us went over to volunteer our time to help build a playground with Let’s Play and KaBOOM.  It was amazing!

There were so many people gathered together to help make this community stronger by providing the children a place to have safe play.  Men, Women, Children and even some leaders within the community such as the Mayor and a Congress Member.  I truly enjoyed taking part and it didn’t seem like work at all, it was like play for us.  Laughing, chatting and playing while we worked to build a playground.  I especially enjoyed capturing some moments in photos during the build.  So cute seeing even the little kiddos trying to help out.

We helped paint sheets of plywood that eventually went on top of the picnic tables after they were put together.  I thought this was a brilliant idea because it gave the picnic tables a nice personalized touch.  Several of the kids helped us also which made it very fun.  They all turned out so great!

The kids got paint in their hair, on their hands, arms and even face but who cares… we had a blast!  I think they did an amazing job with the flowers and lady bugs.  We painted the vines and helped them with the rest but they took over without a sweat.  Very creative!

Once the playground was complete they had a ribbon cutting ceremony and even the founder of KaBOOM spoke.  It was very touching.  The children from the community felt so blessed by what Let’s Play and KaBOOM were providing them that they put on a show for us all as a way to say thank you.

Once I got home from New Orleans I registered on the KaBOOM website so I will be notified when playground builds happen in my local areas.  I can’t wait to volunteer again.  If you are interested you can also follow @LetsPlay and @KaBOOM on Twitter.

Play is so important for our children.  Do you have a swing set at home?  How often do you visit your local park or playground?