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Making a SPLASH in Ashland by HUGO BRAVO
In 2009, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, a 43,000–square– foot facility and place of worship, debuted in Ashland, Ohio, despite resistance by other well–known local Christian organizations. “Back in its early planning stages, there were concerns that our Kroc Center services would compete with other centers in the area,” says Major Annalise Francis, a pastor at the center. “The Kroc Center wasn’t even allowed to have a gym, which today, is common in other Kroc Centers, and even in much smaller Salvation Army buildings.” Still, the Kroc Center thrived in Ashland, and became a symbol of the Army’s presence and God’s love in the community. The center held the honor of being the first of its kind for the Salvation Army’s USA Eastern Territory. Other Kroc Centers later appeared in cities such as Philadelphia and Boston. Five years ago, word spread that the Ashland Kroc Center was in the process of adding a new indoor splash park to its facilities. “We have a good relationship with other organizations in Ashland, and we were able to explain that this water park is something different than what they have,” says Major Francis. “Our facility would be recreational, not a lap pool for swimming competitions and school tournaments like other community centers had.”
As the designs for the Kroc Center’s indoor splash park were created, everyone saw that it would meet a new need in the community. Also, it was not the first time the center had offered an original family attraction. Its outdoor water spray park, open to members and non–members, had been a big success. It was even used during summer food programs, when families could receive assistance and cool off from the heat. “The spray park is a beloved part of the Kroc Center, but it’s built for a younger, summer crowd,” says Francis. “Our goal for the indoor water park was something that would appeal to all ages, and throughout the year, not just in the summer.” During the process, the Kroc Center resembled a construction site. But Francis says that seeing the process go from 2D illustrations, to 3D renderings, and to seeing the first members of the community go down the center’s new water slides, was a rewarding experience. The indoor splash park also has kids’ play areas, nets and basketball hoops for water sports, and a lazy river. “Our original goal was met—to bring something that would appeal to all ages. Kids and teenagers love the water slides, and grandparents enjoy floating in the lazy river, although I have seen a few of them go down the slides themselves!” says Francis.
The Kroc Center has also added a state– of–the–art gym and fitness facility with locker rooms, which they were originally unable to include when the center debuted. These additions do more than make the center stand out; they provide a way to interact directly with every person who comes in. “Showing someone the light and love of Christ becomes a lot simpler when they’re inside our building,” says Francis. “It is easier and more natural to share what we have to offer after a workout or a few hours of swimming and playing. “To have these facilities is a gift from the Lord. The Kroc Center has grown into what it is now, and we’re excited to see how the vision grows from here.”
WATER PARK SAFETY TIPS Keep the kids in sight, whether they are new or experienced swimmers. Having them swim close together will make it easier to keep watch.
Have floaties for new or young swimmers. They can be especially useful for little ones who want to try their first water slide. Many water parks even provide them to use free of charge.
Stay hydrated. Swimming in the hot sun can leave you dehydrated, even when you don’t think you feel thirsty. Have fresh water on hand and avoid sugary drinks like soda or juice.
Don’t forget the sunscreen at outdoor parks. Reapply it every two hours, even if it has a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) or is considered waterproof. Consider sun–protective hats and bathing suits for toddlers and infants too.
Use the showers. Some parks use chemicals to sanitize water on slides and pools. Always shower off after leaving the water, whether you’re eating, leaving the park, or just taking a break.
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Volume 8 Number 3, 2022
