Later this year the greater Lansing area could witness the opening of its first barrier-free field where children with disabilities can play baseball. The second of its kind in Michigan – the first being outside of Detroit – this field will be located at Valley Farms Park in Dewitt Township.
CASE Cares, the charitable non-profit arm associated with Case Credit Union, is spearheading the project with fundraising efforts. They will contribute $50,000 to the project and the Township has agreed provide an additional $121,000 of funding. A $394,200 grant from the State Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund will help fund much of the project. As soon as the legislature approves the grant, they could begin to break ground.
The field is part of the Miracle League which was founded in Georgia over 10 years ago with the premise that “Every Child Deserves a Chance to Play Baseball.” The fields are covered with a special rubberized surface and painted bases and foul lines so that children with wheelchairs and walkers are able to participate without issue. CASE Cares is accepting donations and sponsorships. Sponsorships can include a piece of equipment, a brick, or even a bench. Please go to www.casecu.org for more information.
CASE Cares is also working to provide a barrier-free
playground adjacent to Potters Park Zoo and hopes to break ground on the surface early, 2011.