L.I.F.E. Center donates to Fitness for All Children playground
Fredericktown, MO February 17, 2011 — The L.I.F.E. (Living Independently For Everyone), Inc. Center for Independent Living in Farmington has donated $10,000 in support of the Fitness for All Children playground being created for all children, including those with disabilities.
L.I.F.E. Center Executive Director Tim Azinger said, “The Farmington L.I.F.E. Center is one of 22 centers in the state of Missouri that serves people with disabilities of all ages and all types. We serve St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve and Madison counties.”
Azinger continued, “The L.I.F.E. Center has been able to save some reserve funds over the past few years. We had hopes to fund new ongoing programs with new staff but we have been hesitant to do so because of the economy. Since we are a non-profit, our board decided that a lump sum distribution or mini-grant would be an appropriate way to support disability causes without the uncertainties of funding new positions and programs internally at this time.”
“We support an accessible playground that allows children with disabilities to play with everyone else. We believe in helping people with disabilities not only live in their community but also to live independently in their community.”
“We have been aware of Fitness For All Children (Project Happy Feet) and their desire to have an inclusive playground area for children with disabilities. We support this mission and we are delighted to help out. Others in our service area are trying to accomplish the same thing but they are not as far along as the Madison County effort. We would consider funding other such projects in the future if we are financially able to do so and if the project is as far along as Project Happy Feet.”
In his closing, Azinger said, “
We want to commend the folks working on Project happy Feet for their vision and hard work. We wish them all the best in achieving their goal.”
Board Chairman Robert “Bob” Mooney said anyone with a disability is encouraged to call the L.I.F.E Center at 725 E. Karsch, Farmington (1-573-756-4314 or 1-800-596-7273 ext. 24; TTY 1-573-760-1402; FAX 1-573-756-3507).
