Cherokee County On a Mission for Inclusive Play By: Victoria Babb, Cunningham Recreation Community Resource Manager – Play 4 ALL Campaign Marcus Bradley, Cherokee Recreation District Director, had always wanted to develop an inclusive play space for Cherokee County. The higher cost for equipment and his limited budget prevented him from attaining the goal, until now. Local resident and “mom on a mission” Stephanie Hyleman was determined to bring an inclusive playground to Cherokee County, so all children can play together regardless of their limitations.
compelling presentation to both the Recreation Commission and County Council. Both unanimously agreed that if her nonprofit organization raised the funds, they would provide the land for the project and guarantee both maintenance and insurance once it is complete. “We told S.I.L.A.S. Steps that we’re on board and will do whatever we need to do to make this happen,” says Bradley, who is ecstatic that the project is moving forward.
S.I.L.A.S. Steps and Cherokee Recreation District have partnered with Hyleman did not realize the Cunningham Recreation, difference between an ADA GameTime and Play Core. compliant play space and a The soon-to-be destination truly inclusive one until she playground was thoughtfully brought her sons Silas and designed to ensure not only Asher to area playgrounds. access to the equipment, One child was able to access but the equitable notion that the equipment, and the other all belong here. Specialized one was left on the sidelines. sensory rich equipment, Her oldest son, Silas, has ramps, safety surfacing, Cerebral Palsy and was born shade, and other unique without part of his arm. He Left: Silas and Asher Hyleman; Right: Silas and Stephanie Hyleman features are configured so was excluded from the fun. people with varying abilities Mobility was a challenge for Silas and loose surfacing was not will have meaningful recreational experiences and reap the conducive for his walker. The climbers weren’t accessible either – rewards of active play. they required him to get on elevated decks to access them, which is something he could not do. “We were overlooked,” explained Hyleman. “Again and again communities were installing play spaces that emphasized his limitations.” She heard the call to become the catalyst for change when her younger son, Asher, looked into her eyes and said “Mommy, I want to play on a playground with Silas.” Hyleman founded a charitable organization called S.I.L.A.S Steps, which not only is her son’s name, but also represents what the organization stands for: Safety, Inclusion, Love, Accessibility and Socialization. She reached out to the Cherokee Recreation District asking for their help. Bradley paved the way for a partnership, inviting Hyleman to deliver her heartfelt story and
Most notably, no child will be forced on the sidelines ever again. This playground will also serve our veterans, aging population, and caregivers with challenges and limitations. Cunningham Recreation’s Play 4 ALL Campaign is helping S.I.L.A.S. Steps implement a fund development plan and provide the tools necessary to engage philanthropic donors. “Funds have been coming in from various sectors like local businesses, private foundations and individuals,” says Hyleman. “Our goal is to open Hyleman’s Humble Playground in 2021. Every $1 counts.” Learn more at www.silasstepsinc.com and www.play4allcampaign.com
Most notably, no child will be forced on the sidelines ever again. This playground will also serve our Veterans, aging population, and caregivers with challenges and limitations. Opposite page (left to right): Marty Crawford, William Tate, Asher Hyleman, Silas Hyleman, and Stephanie Hyleman (founder of S.I.L.A.S. Steps)
26 SOUTH CAROLINA Recreation and Parks • www.scrpa.org
