Transforming The Lives Of Special Needs Children & Young Adults
MikesPlayground Where Everyone Plays
BECOME ONE OF OUR VALUED PARTNERS
GET INVOLVED NOW
Make a difference in your community today
Become a volunteer
Join us at MikesPlayground as a volunteer and make a meaningful difference in the lives of special needs children and young adults through your time and dedication.
Donate to support
Become a partner
INTRODUCING
MikesPlayground
- Inclusive Play Areas
- Educational Workshops
- Recreational Activities
- Support Services
- Community Engagement
Discover Our Vision:
MikesPlayground Prospectus Now Available
We are excited to announce the release of the MikesPlayground Prospectus, your in-depth guide to our mission, programs, and goals for empowering special needs children and young adults. This beautifully crafted document highlights the transformative impact of inclusive play, education, and community support, offering inspiring stories and detailed plans for the future. Download your copy today to see how you can get involved—whether through donating, partnering, or volunteering—and help us build a brighter, more inclusive future. For more information or to explore collaboration opportunities, contact us and join the movement to create lasting change!
The Facts of the Matter
People with disabilities represent the nation’s largest minority group, encompassing individuals from all walks of life. Unlike other minority groups, this is the only group that anyone can join at any time, whether due to an accident, illness, or the natural aging process. This reality underscores the importance of creating inclusive spaces that accommodate everyone, regardless of ability. At MikesPlayground, we recognize that accessibility isn’t just a benefit for some—it’s a necessity for all. By advocating for and building inclusive playgrounds, we are not only supporting current members of this diverse community but also ensuring that our parks are prepared to welcome everyone, now and in the future.
6.7 Million
The number of
school-age children
with disabilities
Nearly 40%
of grandparents provide child care for their grandchildren.
22%
provide care
25+ hours a week.
– Grandparents: A critical Child Care Safety Net.
National Association of Child Care Resources & Referal Agencies
Nearly 26%
of Americans have a
disability and the prevalence of disabilities in adults
increases with age.
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Disability & Health Data System, 2019
1 Billion +
the number of people
with disabilities
in the world.
– Nearly 15% of the world’s population.
74%
of parents believe it’s important for their children to play with variety of kids, including those with disabilities.
– Landscape Structures Inclusive Play Survey, 2014
Article 31
Children have the right to relax and play, and to join in a wide range of cultural, artistic, and other recreational activities.
– The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Children, 1989
1 In 59
children have Autism
Spectrum Disorder
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018
15% A Year
Autism’s rate of growth, making it the fastest growing disability.
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014
1 In 700
Babies are born with Down Syndrome every year.
1 IN 323
children have cerebral palsy.
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018
85%
The number of adults with disabilities who report loosing their jobs report doing so due to a lack of social skills.
– Elksnin & Elksnin, “Adolescents with Disabilities: The Need For Occupational Social Skills Training”,
Exceptionality; Volume 9 No. 1 & 2; Pages 91-105.
5% to 16%
of children are affected with Sensory Processing Disorder.
– “Sensational Kids: Hope & Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder,” Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D. 2006
500,000+
Troops have been wounded in recent conflicts.
– Wounded Warrior Project
7 Out Of 10
Parents strongly agree that playground equipment should be designed so all children can play together.
1 IN 323
children have cerebral palsy.
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018
CURRENT PROJECTS
Projects That Can Use Your Support
San Juan Park Project
Financial help for poor, needy families
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LET"S CHANGE THE WORLD
Donate to MikesPlayground Today!
MikesPlayground is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving special needs children and their families by establishing inclusive playgrounds, accessible ADA equipment, and fostering belonging for all children. It’s MikesPlayground, where everyone plays. Your donation is more than just a gift; it’s an investment in a brighter, more inclusive future. With your support, we can continue to build accessible play areas, offer educational workshops, and provide essential support services to families in need. Join us in making a lasting impact. Click the “Donate” button on our website or send your contribution via check or money order. Every donation, big or small, helps us create a community where every child can thrive. Together, we can make a difference. Donate today and be part of something truly great!
Get Involved & Make A Difference Now
Upcoming events
- Events
- 23 Aug 2024
Mikes Playground Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
This is more than just a ribbon-cutting; it's a celebration of inclusivity, community, and the power of play! By joining us at the Grand Opening of Mikes Playground, you'll be part of a momentous occasion where we unveil a space dedicated to special needs children and young adults of all abilities.
More Details- Fundraisers
- 24 Aug 2024
Meet Us At Mikes Playground Fundraiser
We are excited to invite you to our first-ever fundraiser, "Meet Us at MikesPlayground," in partnership with Sunrise Park and Recreation!
More DetailsTEAM MEMBERS
Meet Our Devoted Team
Aurelia Walker
Founder
Aurelia began MikesPlayground Corporation in 2021 after witnessing the lack of resources available to her disabled grandson and wanting to make a difference in both her daughters and grandson’s life.
Roberto Thompson II
President
As Vice President, Roberto works to hone MikesPlayground’s impactful reach enhancing the efforts and vision of leadership, shining a light on the organization’s goal to enrich the lives of special needs children.
Alma R. Sotomayor
CEO's Secretary & Advisor
Alma forte lies in structured organization to optimize outcomes. Married for 36-years and raised 3 college grad children. I spent 35 years working for State Farm, rising to VP of HERO group and fostering Hispanic advancement.
Philip McGeorge
Executive Director
Philip says “I am able to direct our organization in accordance with our mission and vision. I am a mentor, visionary, advisor, and investor. Leading a staff of Professionals, we work together as a team to reach our company goals.”
OUR TESTIMONIALS
What People Are Saying About Us
OUR LATEST BLOG
Checkout news & updates
Cultivating Hope: How Farming Transforms the Lives of Special Needs Children and Young Adults
Discover how farming empowers special needs children and young adults by fostering mental and physical growth, building life skills, and promoting independence. Learn how selling at farmers markets enhances confidence and community inclusion.
California’s Prop 4 in 2024: Empowering Children Through Inclusive Playgrounds
California’s Prop 4 in 2024 is a critical opportunity to create inclusive play spaces for children of all abilities. At MikesPlayground, we stand firmly behind Proposition 4 as it aligns with our mission to empower special needs children by providing accessible recreational areas. This isn’t about politics—it’s about the future of our children. Vote yes on Prop 4 and help us build a more inclusive California!
Mikes First Day Back to School
Join Mike on his first day back to school as a junior at the Ralph Richardson Center. See heartwarming moments with his service dog, Stuffy, and supportive school staff.