Community Service: Painting & Signage for the Zion Preschool Playground

Volunteer initiatives strengthen small communities and encourage meaningful connections among residents. As a parent of two young children, I prioritize projects that directly benefit local families and contribute to the broader community, using these opportunities to teach the value of meaningful participation.

The preschool playground project at Zion Lutheran Church in Frewsburg fit these goals, giving me a hands-on way to show my children the impact of community involvement.

THE PLAYGROUND

Built in 2018, the playground came together through a collaborative effort among several young families and congregation members, under the leadership and vision of Rachel Rouchey. The design emphasized natural elements, such as tree stumps for jumping stones, a palette kitchen, bricks for a car racetrack, and wood balance beams. The plan included two six-foot sections of fence, painted and mounted with found objects to create a music wall. Our family contributed to the project by painting this music wall.

THE REFRESH & SIGNAGE

In the fall of 2020, my youngest enrolled in the preschool, and we volunteered again to refresh the weathered equipment. During this time, I also designed new metal playground signage, professionally printed to maximize durability. The design features friendly woodland creatures, keeping the tone playful for kids while giving families clear guidance around the space.

——
Even after my children outgrow this playspace, I'll continue to appreciate the lasting impact this project has had on the community.