North Columbus News

A new playground designed for children of all abilities has opened in Noble County, Ohio. The Legendary Adventure Zone at Belle Valley Community Park was officially launched on July 8, becoming the county’s first fully inclusive play space.

The project was developed through collaboration between local families, community organizations, and The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), along with Ohio State University Extension. The playground features adaptive swings, a whirl seat, sensory seating options, a communication board, and shaded areas to create an environment accessible to all children.

“This project began with one brave and loving mother who envisioned a space where her child with autism — and every child in Noble County — could laugh, play and belong,” said Gloria Llewellyn, superintendent and CEO of the Boards of Developmental Disabilities for Belmont, Harrison and Noble counties.

“That spark grew into a powerful collaboration among neighbors, leaders and partners, all driven by the belief that every child deserves a place to explore and feel included.”

Amanda Myers was the parent whose vision started the effort. Inspired by her son Charlie’s needs as a child with autism, Myers sought help from Dawn Schultheis of Ohio State Extension in Noble County as well as Llewellyn. Their meeting in July 2024 led to partnerships with various organizations.

“This inclusive playground is a landmark for our community,” Myers said. “It brings awareness to all special needs and teaches kindness at a young age — so we can all play and have fun.”

Funding came from multiple sources: the Marathon Community Investment Program provided support alongside a $20,000 match from the Noble County Health Department; over $47,000 came from the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board for ADA-compliant amenities; in September 2024 the Noble County Board of Developmental Disabilities approved up to $125,000 for equipment purchases. This allowed access to matching funds through GameTime’s grant program.

“Through Ohio State Extension and CFAES, we’re here to connect people, programs and partners,” Schultheis said. “The success of this project shows the value of listening to our communities and leveraging those relationships to secure the resources needed to bring real, lasting change.”

Schultheis worked with local businesses for donations ranging from construction materials to labor. Additional grants were received from DWA Recreation/GameTime. More than 25 businesses or organizations also contributed support.

According to Llewellyn, providing accessible public spaces may help rural communities retain young families by offering high-quality amenities that influence decisions about where people choose to live or work.

“This is more than a playground,” she said. “It sends a message to families that their children belong and are welcome to participate fully in community life. Long-term, it will foster growth, inclusion and confidence — not just for children with disabilities, but for the entire community.”

Myers described strong backing from local residents: “We’ve received so much support, love and prayers,” she said. “Being a parent to a child with special needs is far from easy, but we are stronger than we believe. Every community deserves to have individuals like Dawn and Gloria rooting for kiddos with disabilities.”